The recommended daily allowance of protein is lower than some people think. It is different, depending on certain factors, but on average it is 50 grams for females and 63 for males. Most people consume almost twice that amount. And then there are some elderly and vegans who do not get nearly enough.

What are the vegetarian sources of protein? They include whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds, dairy products (including milk, cheese, and yogurt), eggs, fruits, vegetables, and those yummy veggie burgers!

A complete protein includes 22 aminio acids. Most meat, chicken, fish, eggs, and dairy products contain all 22 of the required aminio acids. A lot of your plant based foods have incomplete proteins.

Most people are surprised to find out that all plant based foods contain protein. All plant structure comes from protein. As a matter of fact, protein is the basic component of their structure.

All vegetarian sources of protein do not have the 22 required aminio acids. But, nature has the answer! The aminio acids from all foods eaten during the day are put in a pool, and used to make complete protein.

As long as a vegetarian is eating a variety of the foods listed above in the vegetarian sources of protein list, it is not very likely that he or she will not get a required amount of protein.

And problems associated with getting too much protein can be even worse. They include kidney problems, osteoporosis, acid reflux, obesity, plaque buildup in the arteries, arthritis, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, to name several.

So a vegetarian can get enough protein, as long as he or she eats a variety of foods from the vegetarian sources of protein list from above. So, enjoy your vegetarian diet lifestyle! Look better, feel better, and maybe even live longer.

Please check with your doctor before making any changes in your diet or lifestyle.