Extraordinary Health Magazine Extraordinary Health Vol 21 | Page 46
Plant
Protein
Popularity
44
S
Those on a plant-based
diet don’t always get
enough protein and can
have difficulty
finding a highquality supplemental
protein—especially
one that’s RAW, Certified
upplemental plant protein use is wildly popular these days. In fact, eating plants
versus animal-sourced food, in general, has numerous health advantages and is
becoming increasingly popular. No doubt you’ve heard of Dr. T. Colin Campbell’s The
China Study or have viewed Forks Over Knives—just a few examples of how a plantbased diet is changing people’s health for the better.
But not all plants—or plant proteins—are alike or the best to use as a protein source.
Some plant proteins are made with conventionally raised plants filled with pesticides
and other toxins such as GMOs, or they offer incomplete proteins without adequate
amino acids.
Firmly Planted with the Right Plant Protein
There are many plant proteins on the market, including soy and brown rice.
Let’s take a look at soy, the other leading plant protein.
USDA Organic and
Non-GMO Project
verified. Everyone needs
protein, too, because it
supplies energy; helps
build muscle;
increases stamina;
supports a healthy
weight; and builds
new cells, tissues,
enzymes, antibodies
and hormones.
NON
GMO
VER
Project
I FI E D
no ngmoproject.org
Soy protein is a complete protein which, when conventionally grown, has, on
average, 10 pesticide residues, according to the USDA Pesticide Data Program.
That includes the overlap of three known or probable carcinogens, five suspected
hormone disruptors, two neurotoxins, two developmental or reproductive toxins for
humans and three honeybee toxins.
Likewise, soy protein contains isoflavones and goitrogens, which can raise
estrogen levels in women and men and can negatively impact thyroid function when
consumed in high amounts. Soybeans also contain phytic acid, which can block the
uptake of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc. They also