The Power of Clean Protein

Wondering where to find these clean sources of plant-based proteins? You’re probably familiar with many, and most likely have some in your pantry already. Examples of clean proteins include nuts, seeds, tofu, and vegan protein powders.

Other options include staples like spinach, brown rice, and legumes. Try a brown rice bowl with spinach and chickpeas, topped with a dressing made from grainy mustard, miso, or tahini (sesame paste). Add in some favourite spices and you’ve got a protein-packed lunch fit for a queen.

If you compare this to chicken or beef sourced from farms using antibiotics and hormones, there’s simply no competition. Neither provides fibre. Both contain saturated fat and cholesterol. So, choosing plant-based, clean proteins is a win-win from any angle.

The power of protein packaging

According to Freston, you must look beyond just the protein itself. It’s important to read the packaging of the protein you’re considering. The packaging and labels will provide important facts and nutritional information. For example, Freston says, the label will tell you “how much cholesterol or saturated fat is embedded in your protein of choice, and whether or not it causes inflammation in the body.”

Freston says that when you incorporate clean sources into your diet, your body is fueled for optimum performance. When we introduce foods that help our body achieve its full potential for digestion, absorption, and elimination, we may improve our health overall. Switching to clean protein aids our bodies in this endeavour, while also having positive effects on the environment.

She says, “Think about experiencing all the benefits of a typical high-protein diet—stronger muscles, healthy hair, glowing skin—same protein performance, but cleaner. That’s clean protein.”

A clean protein revolution is what our planet needs, too. “The world’s population is rising. The demand for protein is growing, and the current system of raising animals for food is quite simply not sustainable,” Freston says. “The land and water cannot bear the burden—nor can human health.”

The power of protein portions

Freston reminds us that “protein is a natural component of vegetables, beans, grains, and fruits. When it comes to protein, if you’re an athlete, you’ll naturally eat more food, and protein comes along with it.”

The power of protein purchases

Freston advises us to identify the clean proteins that we already enjoy and have in our pantries while stocking up on some new, basic additions like dark, leafy greens, different varieties of legumes, grains, and nuts as well as tempeh and/or tahini.

She also encourages us to try some new vegan options for clean proteins. She says, “These are excellent transition foods for people moving away from animal foods. They’re often high in protein and fibre, while lower in saturated fat.”

Although these aren’t all considered whole foods, they can still hold an important place in our diets. “True, they may not be as ideal as whole grains, beans, nuts, and seeds,” she says, “but they make moving away from the old, traditional proteins much easier! I’m a believer in progress, not perfection, so I highly recommend exploring the grocery shelves.”

When choosing proteins, clean, plant-based options are a great way to fuel and nourish your body while helping to keep our environment clean and our planet protected. Small changes and wise choices may lead to a healthier happier planet and a healthy, happier you.