How Much Protein Do You Really Need? The Answer May Surprise You

The one question every vegan will tell you they get asked most is this: “Where do you get your protein?” That’s because Americans are obsessed with protein, to the point that it’s hurting their health. Take, for instance, a new study that reveals that Americans are eating well over their daily requirement and that this amount of excess is making them sicker and fatter.

But don’t think you’re in the clear if you’re eating a vegan diet. Too much protein, whether from animals or vegan processed food, or plant-based diets with no variety, is bad for the body. Fortunately, though, getting what you need on a plant-only diet is easier than you think. Experts break down how much you need and how to get it on a whole-food, plant-based diet.

Numerous reasons explain why Americans are obsessed with protein, and none of them lead to better health. “It’s more marketing ploy than scientific evidence,” says Will Bulsiewicz, M.D., a board-certified gastroenterologist in Charleston, S.C., gut health expert, and author of the upcoming book, Fiber Fueled. 

Since you were a kid, you’ve no doubt been told that protein is key for growing up strong and healthy, a message that’s pushed everywhere. “Marketing and diets encourage you to increase protein and avoid carbohydrates for weight loss,” says Marta Ferraz Valles, R.D.N., a clinical dietitian in the Institute for Digestive Health and Liver Disease at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Md. “This leads people to think that animal protein will help them lose weight and feel fuller, when in fact, the more animal protein you eat, the heavier you are.”

Here’s another fact you should know: Nobody in the United States is dying from a protein deficiency. “Americans are getting twice as much protein as they need,” Bulsiewicz says. Even vegans are consuming too much protein – a whopping 70 percent more than they need --  thanks to the proliferation of vegan protein shakes, energy bars, and processed foods.

So is too much protein bad for the body, even if it’s from plants? Simply put, yes. No matter your source of protein, research suggests that excess protein places tremendous strain on your kidneys, Bulsiewicz says. As a result, your risk of kidney disease, one of the top 10 killers in the United States, increases. There’s one caveat with plant-based foods, though: “I have zero concerns (with protein) about a balanced, whole food, plant-based diet,” he says. “If somebody just eats quinoa or beans and nothing else, that would be different, but that also wouldn’t be a balanced diet.”

The dangers don’t stop there, though, and if your protein is coming from animal sources, you’re putting your health in even more danger. “Animal protein is associated with a higher risk of many chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, kidney disease and cancer, and increased mortality,” Ferraz Valles says. After all, when you eat protein, you don’t do it in isolation, as food comes in a package. “When you eat protein from meat, dairy, eggs, and fish, you also get saturated fat and cholesterol.” On the flip side, protein from plants like legumes, nuts, and seeds gives you significant amounts of fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients, all of which protect you from disease and premature death.

There’s another issue at play here, too, namely fiber, which you can only get from plants. When people fill their plates with protein from animal sources, that leaves little room for fiber, which is crucial for overall health and longevity. “Only three percent of Americans are getting the fiber they need on a daily basis,” Bulsiewicz says.

While guidelines recommend that women eat 25 grams a day, and men 38 grams a day, most Americans average only 15 grams a day. That alone could spell trouble, for while no American is dying of a protein deficiency, they are dying of fiber deficiency with diets low in fruits and vegetables being linked with issues like cardiovascular disease and strokes.

To figure out how much protein you need, start with nutritional guidelines. The Recommended Dietary Allowance for protein is .8 grams per kilogram (g/kg) of body weight. Some experts, however, recommend slightly higher amounts for plant-based eaters to the tune of 9. To 1 g/kg of body weight, Ferraz Valles says. And fitness enthusiasts may also need more, closer to 1.2 to 1.4 g/kg of body weight, Bulsiewicz says.

Although the RDA for protein for older adults is the same, studies suggest that older adults may benefit from slightly higher intakes of .9 to 1 g/kg of body weight. “When you get older, your body’s ability to utilize protein becomes less effective,” Ferraz Valles says.

But can you really meet your protein needs on a plant-based diet? The answer is yes, and you just have to look at plant-eating animals in the wild for proof. Elephants and gorillas are herbivores, and it’s evident from their size that they’re not suffering from too little protein.

That’s because all whole plant-based foods contain considerable amounts of protein (ironically, it’s where animals raised for food get their protein). Try adding more of these plant-based foods to your plate for protein:

Plant protein will even give you all of the essential amino acids you need, Ferraz Valles says. As a refresher, proteins are actually made out of chains of amino acids, and while your body can make some amino acids, it can’t make others. That’s where food comes into play, and while many people believe plants can’t provide the amino acids you need, that’s incorrect, as all plant proteins contain at least some of every essential amino acid, according to VeganHealth.org.

And don’t think you have to combine proteins in special ways to make them complete, meaning that they have all of the amino acids you need. This is another misconception that’s since been debunked. “All plant proteins are complete,” Ferraz Valles says.

Still, worried you won’t get enough? Rest assured: If you eat a variety of vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds every day and get enough calories, your protein needs will be met, Ferraz Valles says.

One way to make this easier? Think of legumes as your “meat” and aim to get at least two to three daily servings of legumes in the form of beans, chickpeas, lentils, split peas, edamame, tofu, or tempeh.

Looks like this hype about protein isn’t only unwarranted but also dangerous. More fiber, anybody?

Protein: 21 grams in ⅓ cup (1 ounce) Seitan isn’t as popular as other proteins, but it should be! Made from wheat gluten, its texture resembles ground meat. It’s often used in pre-made veggie burgers or meatless nuggets. Seitan has a savory taste, like mushrooms or chicken, so it works well in dishes that call for an umami flavor. With a hearty texture, seitan can be the star of practically any vegan main dish. Add it to stir-fries, sandwiches, burritos, burgers, or stews. Like tofu, seitan will take on the flavor of any marinade or sauce.

Protein: 16 grams in 3 ounces If you like a protein with a bit of bite, add tempeh to your list. Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh has a slightly nutty flavor and is pressed into a block. Most varieties include some sort of grains, such as barley or millet. Not only is tempeh a plant-based source of protein, but the fermentation process also creates good-for-your-gut probiotics. You can cut tempeh right off the block and use it as the base for a sandwich or pan-fry it with some sauce. Or, crumble, heat, and make it the star of your next taco night.

Protein: 13 grams in ½ cup cooked Lentils come in multiple varieties--red, yellow, green, brown, black. Regardless of the type lentils are small but mighty nutritional powerhouses. They pack a good amount of protein as well as iron, folate, and fiber. When cooked, brown lentils retain their texture and can be the base for a grain bowl or make a hearty substitute for ground meat in meatballs, lasagna, tacos or Bolognese. Red lentils are a bit softer and make a nice add-in for a hearty soup, chili, or stew.

Protein: 10 grams in 3 tablespoons Hemp seeds are a tender and nutty seed, derived from the hemp plant. They contain good amounts of omega-3s, iron, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese. They are also a solid source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps to keep your digestive tract healthy and humming. Because they pack a double whammy of protein and healthy fats, hemp seeds can help satisfy hunger, preventing those embarrassing stomach growls as you slog your way to your lunch break. Add them to your morning smoothie or sprinkle them on top of yogurt, oatmeal, or even a salad.

Protein: 9 grams in 3 ounces (⅕ of a block) Made from coagulated soybeans, tofu is the most popular plant-based protein. Soy is one of the only meatless "complete" proteins, meaning that it contains all of the essential amino acids that the body can’t make but needs for muscle and immune function. With 15% of your daily calcium needs, tofu is also a good replacement for dairy.

Protein: 9 grams of protein in ½ cup This sushi appetizer is a nutrient powerhouse, so eat it anytime. Edamame is really just another name for soybeans in their pods. Let’s list off some stats--a small ½-cup serving of edamame has 9 grams of protein, 15% of your daily vitamin C, 10% of your daily iron and 16% of your daily fiber. Keep a bag of edamame in your freezer to serve as a fun-to-eat side dish or opt for the shelled variety to toss into salads or a grain bowl.

Protein: 8 grams per cup (cooked) Quinoa is an ancient grain and since it's gluten-free a great choice for anyone avoiding gluten. Add it to your burger recipe to create filling texture, or instead of meat in your taco or burrito. Quinoa is among the healthiest foods on the planet, delivering phytonutrients that have anti-inflammatory qualities, so keep it in your pantry for any meal that needs a filling grain. Just remember to soak it and rinse before cooking to get rid of any bitter taste.

Protein: 7 grams in ½ cup (canned) Eating beans on the regular might as well be a prerequisite for a plant-based diet. Not only are canned black beans inexpensive, but they also contribute 10% of your daily iron and 25% of your daily fiber to your diet. For less than $1 a can, beans can be the star of tacos, quesadillas, salads, soups, burgers, or dips.

Protein: 6 grams in ⅔ cup (cooked) Chances are you’ve never cooked amaranth. But you should, since this tiny, gluten- free grain is packed with almost 30% of your daily fiber and 20% of your daily iron. Cook it like a traditional grain to yield a soft, porridge-like texture. Many people add amaranth to other a hot breakfast cereal mixture, like oats and quinoa. It also pops like popcorn. Toss it in a pot with some oil and wait for it to pop up into a nutritious snack.

Protein: 5 grams in ⅔ cup If peas were one of your most hated veggies as a kid, it’s time to give them another chance. These green beans are a great low-calorie protein to keep in your freezer. Sure, they don’t always taste great when steamed or microwaved (who wants to eat mushy, overcooked peas?), but they do blend well into a yummy puree that can be slathered on toast. To amp up the flavor, add some lemon juice or mint to your mix before you blend.

Soybeans are a legume but they are such a great source of protein that we had to lead the veggie list with it. There is more protein in just one ounce of soybeans than a cup of sliced avocado! 1 cup equals Protein - 28.6g Calories - 298 Carbs - 17.1g Fiber - 10.3g Calcium - 175mg

If the pod, that peas are grown in, is split down the middle, that is an indicator they are ripe. Seeds inside the pod vary and can be green, white or yellow. 1 cup equals Protein - 8.6g Calories - 134 Carbs - 25g Fiber - 8.8g Calcium - 43.2 mg

Fresh corn is a great source of energy for those who like to stay active. Protein isn't all that corn has to offer. Corn provides the body with potassium and B vitamins. 1 cup equals Protein - 5.4g Calories - 177 Carbs - 123g Fiber - 4.6g Calcium - 4.9mg

Artichokes are part of the sunflower family. The fiber in artichoke hearts is great for supporting digestion. 1 cup equals Protein - 4.8g Calories - 89 Carbs - 20g Fiber - 14.4g Calcium - 35.2mg

If not properly stored, Asparagus tends to go bad quickly, To elongate freshness, put damp paper towels around the stems, or place the entire asparagus bunch in a cup of water (like flowers) to maintain freshness longer. 1 cup equals Protein - 4.4g Calories - 39.6 Carbs - 7.4g Fiber - 3.6g Calcium - 41.4mg

Brussel sprouts have more Vitamin C than an orange. If your Brussel sprouts have a rancid odor that is an indicator you overcooked them. The smell occurs because the sprouts are composed of a great amount of sulforaphane. 1 cup equals Protein - 4g Calories - 56.2 Carbs - 40g Fiber - 4g Calcium - 56.2mg

If you are trying to lose weight broccoli is a great addition to your diet because it consists of 90 water and is also high in fiber. 1 cup (chopped) equals Protein - 3.8g Calories - 54.6Carbs - 11.2g Fiber - 5.2g Calcium - 62.4mg

Mustard greens provide the body with tons of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and fiber. Adding steamed mustard greens into your diet has been known to lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation. 1 cup equals Protein - 3.2 g Calories - 21 Carbs - 2.9g Fiber - 2.8g Calcium - 104mg

Avocado is commonly mistaken as a vegetable but it is technically a fruit. This fruit had to be included in our veggie list because it isn't just tasty but super nutritious. Avocados are packed with protein but they are a great source of potassium and fiber. Avocados are a great addition to any salad, sandwich and even smoothie! 1 cup equals Protein - 3.0 g Calories - 240 Carbs - 12.8 g Fiber - 10.1g Calcium - 18 mg

Onions are an unappreciated food hero since they provide 20 percent of your daily Vitamin C and deliver an abundance of antioxidants that can reduce inflammation. 1 cup (chopped) equals Protein - 2.9g Calories - 92.4 Carbs - 21.3g Fiber - 2.9g Calcium - 46.2mg

The entire beetroot is edible including the leaves which contain loads of vitamin A, calcium, iron and potassium. Beetroot is high in sugar but is considered one of the most nutritious veggies used in salads and soups. 1 cup equals Protein - 2.8 g Calories - 74.8 Carbs - 17g Fiber - 3.4g Calcium - 27.2mg

Oyster mushrooms are commonly seen in Chinese dishes. They grow best in a controlled environment indoors. Oyster mushrooms have so many nutrients to offer besides protein such as iron, calcium, zinc and folic acid. 1 cup (raw and sliced) equals Protein - 2.8g Calories - 37 Carbs - 5.6g Fiber - 2.0g Calcium - 2.6mg

Bok Choy is a member of the mustard family. One of the oldest cultivated vegetables in the world, Bok Choy means "white vegetable” and is a great source of vitamins A, C, B6, K, and E, magnesium, potassium, iron, manganese, and calcium. 1 cup equals Protein - 2.7 g Calories - 20.4 Carbs - 3.1g Fiber - 1.7g Calcium - 158mg

Green beans are a great source of vitamins B, C and K, and minerals such as magnesium, iron and manganese. Green beans should be cooked before eating, to destroy lectins. China is the biggest grower of green beans in the world, exporting over 15 million tons a year. 1 cup equals Protein - 1.8 g Calories - 31 Carbs - 7 g Fiber - 2.7 g Calcium - 37 mg

The most nutritious way to consume cauliflower is steamed. Don't get intimidated by orange, purple or green cauliflower. All three types have the same benefits as white cauliflower. 1 cup equals Protein - 2.2g Calories - 28.6 Carbs - 5.4g Fiber - 2.8g Calcium - 19.8mg

You can eat the entire plant, root and leaves. The turnip root is high in vitamin C and the greens are high in vitamins A, C, E, B6 and K, believed to counter inflammation. Add turnip roots to soup, or mash them. Add them to salads. 1 cup equals Protein - 1.6g Calories - 28.8 Carbs - 6.3g Fiber - 5.0g Calcium - 197mg

Alfalfa sprouts might be little but they sure are powerful. Plus they're quick and easy to grow. They are loaded with Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Iron and more. But because they have been known to carry bacteria, make sure to fully cook alfalfa sprouts if you have a fragile immune system or are pregnant. 1 cup equals Protein - 1.3 g Calories - 8 Carbs - 0.7 g Fiber - 0.6 g Calcium - 10.6 mg

Keep your tomatoes fresher for longer by storing them stem down. When exposed to sunlight the Vitamin C in a tomato will diminish. 1 cup equals Protein - 1.3g Calories - 26.8 Carbs - 5.8g Fiber - 1.8g Calcium - 14.9mg

Zucchini has an abundance of potassium, even more than a banana! The reason zucchini isn't high in calories is that it is made up of 95% water. 1 cup equals Protein - 1.2g Calories - 28.8 Carbs - 7.1g Fiber - 2.5g Calcium - 23.4 mg

Spinach is filled with Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, fiber and protein. The best part about spinach is you can sauté it, blend it or eat it raw! Spinach is best grown in rainy and cool weather. 1 cup equals Protein - 0.9g Calories - 6.4 Carbs - 1.0 g Fiber - 0.6g Calcium - 27.7 mg

Soybeans are a legume but they are such a great source of protein that we had to lead the veggie list with it. There is more protein in just one ounce of soybeans than a cup of sliced avocado! 1 cup equals Protein - 28.6g Calories - 298 Carbs - 17.1g Fiber - 10.3g Calcium - 175mg

Lentils are the only beans that don't have to be soaked before preparing. Lentils can be the star of any dish that needs heft, from soups to burgers. Next time it's Taco Tuesday, try out lentil tacos—they pack a protein punch. 1 cup equals Protein - 17.9 g Calories - 230 Carbs - 39.9 g Fiber - 15.6 g Calcium - 37.6 mg

Dried white beans can be stored for up to three years in a dry, room-temperature location. Which means you can keep them around whenever you need a staple for soups or stews. 1 cup equals Protein - 17.4 g Calories - 249 Carbs - 44.9 g Fiber -11.3 g Calcium - 161 mg

Edamame is a great snack to keep in your freezer. Microwave them and spice them up with a sprinkle of salt, chili powder and red pepper flakes. You'll be enjoying a protein-filled snack that is better than chips. 1 cup (cooked and shelled) equals Protein - 16.9 g Calories - 189 Carbs - 15.8g Fiber - 8.1g Calcium - 97.6mg

As you cook cranberry beans, the unique specks of red that give these legumes their name vanish. Boil the cranberry beans, blend into a spread and use as a delicious dip with veggies for a great protein snack. 1 cup equals Protein - 16.5 g Calories - 241 Carbs - 43.3 g Fiber - 15.2 g Calcium - 88.5 mg

Don't confuse split peas with green peas. Split peas are dried and—surprise— split. Unlike their sweet cousins, these peas must be boiled for 45 minutes before they're ready to eat. Make Ina Garten's easy Parker's Split Pea Soup for a protein-packed lunch. 1 cup cooked Protein - 16.3 g Calories - 229 Carbs - 41.1 g Fiber - 16.3 g Calcium - 27.4 mg

Make sure to soak these beans overnight to get rid of the toxic proteins in the raw bean that is harmful to people and animals. then cook thoroughly before eating. Soaking and cooking the beans will get rid of the harmful proteins. Then, dig in! 1 cup equals Protein - 15.3 g Calories - 225 Carbs - 40.4 g Fiber - 13.1 g Calcium - 49.6 mg

Black "turtle" bean is the technical name for this crowd favorite. The "turtle" part comes from the physical appearance of the shiny exterior shell that protects the bean. 1 cup equals Protein - 15.2 g Calories - 227 Carbs - 40.8 g Fiber - 15 g Calcium - 46.4 mg

As you can see, navy beans are clearly not navy. So where did the name come from? These beans were such an important part of the U.S. Navy diet in the beginning of the 20th century that the beans were named after them. Anchors aweigh! 1 cup equals Protein - 15 g Calories - 255 Carbs - 47.4 g Calcium - 126 mg

Canned pinto beans aren't just a source of protein, but also major fiber. Pinto beans are often used as refried beans because they fall apart when steamed. 1 cup equals Protein - 15.4g Calories - 245 Carbs - 44.8g Fiber - 15.4g Calcium - 78.6mg

What's better than hummus for boosting protein? Not much. Just half a cup delivers 10 grams of protein, which is a good percentage of your daily needs: ranging from 45 to 65 grams, depending on weight, gender and activity level. 1 cup equals Protein - 14.5g Calories - 269 Carbs - 45g Fiber - 12.5 g Calcium - 80.4 mg

Lima beans are often called "butter beans" because of their buttery taste. Famously used in succotash, lima beans can also be used boost the taste of a hearty vegetable soup, or roast them with sweet potatoes as a side dish. 1 cup equals Protein - 14.7 g Calories - 216 Carbs - 39.3g Fiber - 13.2g Calcium - 32mg

Mung beans lack a lot of flavor but are great to add to any dish for crunch and protein. Trade your chickpea-based falafel for a mung bean option to switch things up. Fact: Just Eggs uses mung beans for protein! 1 cup equals Protein - 14.2 g Calories - 212 Carbs - 38.7 g Fiber - 15.4 g Calcium - 54.5 mg

Take the fava beans out of the pod since experts don't recommend eating that part. For freshest taste, only separate the beans from the pods when you 're ready to eat them. 1 cup equals Protein - 12.9 g Calories - 185 Carbs - 33.2 g Fiber - 9.18 g Calcium - 61.2 mg

Who knew little old peas pack a major protein punch? One cup of peas has more protein than one average-sized egg. Yep, you can make a bet and win it. 1 cup equals Protein - 8.6g Calories - 134 Carbs - 25g Fiber - 8.8 g Calcium - 43.2 mg

Grains with the Most Protein

Oats can be used in much more than oatmeal. Make protein oat muffins with oat flower. In Great Britain, Beer is actually made from oats. 1 cup equals Protein - 26.4g Calories - 607 Carbs - 103g Calcium - 84.3mg

Although buckwheat is prepared like a grain, it is technically a seed. You might think buckwheat is off limits if you are gluten-free, but don’t let the name fool you. It is completely gluten-free!. Buckwheat noodles make a great base for an asian salad. 1 cup equals Protein - 22.5g Calories - 583 Carbs - 122g Calcium - 30.6mg

Cornmeal is famously known to be the star ingredient in cornbread, but it can also be used in pancakes. Check out the Minimalist Baker recipe for Vegan Cornmeal Pancakes for your next breakfast. 1 cup (whole-grain, yellow) equals Protein - 9.9g Calories - 442 Carbs - 93.8g Calcium - 7.3mg

Sorghum can be popped just like corn. The process is simple and the product is healthy. To pop: Heat a pan and throw in the tiny sorghum grains. You don’t need to put any oil in the pan but olive oil or avocado oil are tasty choices. 1 cup equals Protein - 21.7g Calories - 651 Carbs - 143g Calcium - 53.8mg

Teff was originally a grass grown in northern Africa, but now you can buy it everywhere. One cup of cooked Teff has 123 mg of calcium, which is the same amount as a 1/2 a cup of cooked spinach. Teff is great in porridge and desserts. Sneak in some protein to your next Vegan Banana Bread recipe with teff flour. 1 cup equals Protein - 9.8g Calories - 255 Carbs - 50.0g

Amaranth is actually a seed but is categorized as a grain for it's starchy consistency. Use it instead of hot cereal or as a warm grain in your salad bowl. 1 cup equals Protein - 9.3g Calories - 251 Carbs - 46.0g Calcium - 116mg

Quinoa belongs to the same family as spinach and beets. The quinoa you grab at the grocery store is actually the seeds from the quinoa plant. Order it in your salad to add fiber, protein and filling grain to your plate. 1 cup equals Protein - 8.1g Calories - 222 Carbs - 39.4g Calcium - 31.5mg

Wild rice is a food to always keep on hand since it doesn’t expire if properly stored in a cool, dry place. Once cooked, wild rice can be refrigerated for one week and frozen for six months. 1 cup equals Protein - 6.5g Calories - 166 Carbs - 35 g Calcium - 4.9 mg

Couscous is technically pasta (who knew?) but is often associated with grains because of its small size. Couscous was traditionally shaped by hand and you can still buy the hand made ones, which are more interesting than the processed shaped ones. 1 cup equals Protein - 5.9g Calories - 176 Carbs - 36.5g Calcium - 12.6mg

Kamut, or Oreintal wheat, is an ancient grain that first came from the area that is now Afghanistan. It has a rich nutty and buttery taste. If you're planning on serving kamut for dinner, make sure you plan ahead, since you need to soak this grain for at least 12 hours, or overnight, before cooking. 1 cup equals Protein - 11.1 g Calories - 251 Carbs - 52.4g