How To Be Vegetarian On A Paleo Diet

If you want to switch to a paleo diet but are concerned that all of your protein sources will be eliminated, it is possible to stay vegetarian while adopting a paleo diet. Protein is found in some unexpected places and with a little research and planning, you can put together a nutritious diet that is paleo and vegetarian. In a paleo diet, soy products, beans, and rice – major sources of protein in many vegetarian diets – are all out. So where can you find paleo, vegetarian sources of protein?

The obvious vegetarian protein source: eggs

Eggs are probably the most obvious protein source that are both vegetarian and protein. Eggs are a nutritious way to start the day and can also be eaten at any time of the day. A large egg contains 6.5 grams of protein. A typical paleo diet recommendation is up to six eggs per week but you can go higher than that. You’ll need to find additional protein sources though; if you rely on eggs alone you could end up consuming a dozen a day!

Protein in vegetables

Many vegetables contain a high amount of protein. Even before I started going paleo, I was asked “Well where do you get your protein if you’re vegetarian?” The truth is, vegetarian protein is more common than expected.

Here is a list of some foods that are vegetarian, paleo, and also high in protein

• broccoli
• okra
• asparagus
• Brussels sprouts
• pumpkin
• spinach
• watercress

Protein in nuts & seeds

Many nuts and seeds fall under the paleo diet: almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts, walnuts, and many others. Be careful with nuts because while they are rich in protein, they are also often high in calories and fat. Balance nuts with other parts of your diet to ensure optimal results for your goals (muscle building, weight loss, etc). Also, make sure to avoid salted nuts.

Modify the diet

If you find yourself struggling to make the paleo diet work while remaining a vegetarian, you can modify the paleo part (or the vegetarian part) to allow for easier eating. Allow hemp (an excellent source of protein) or grain-like seeds such as quinoa (which you eat like pasta or rice). Allow sprouted beans or legumes. If you want to modify the vegetarian portion of your diet, you might occasionally eat fish. If you want to occasionally eat meat, go for “exotic” types of meat are better: rabbit, goose, game meat (elk, emu, caribou, venison, etc) If you want more traditional meats, make sure they are lean: pork loin and turkey breast are good options. If you do elect to eat meat, small amounts regularly (every few days or once a week) is easier on your body than abstaining from all meat for long periods of time and then indulging in large quantities.

Practice makes perfect

Making any change to your diet can be harder, adopting a paleo meat plan that is also vegetarian is no different. Make incremental changes at first, don’t give up if you “slip up,” and experiment with different foods and recipes to find a meal plan that works for you. With a little practice and adjustment you will find a meal plan that is paleo, vegetarian, healthy, sustainable, and works for you.