How to Maintain a Low Carb High Protein Diet as a Vegan/Vegetarian: Southwest Family Physicians: Family Practice (2024)

FAQs

How can a vegan eat more protein and less carbs? ›

What are some good sources of protein when on a vegan, low-carb diet? Good sources of complete proteins include hemp and chia seeds, nutritional yeast, soy products, and spirulina. Good sources of incomplete proteins include nuts, mushrooms, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, asparagus, watercress and spinach.

Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are low in carbs, but high in protein and fat. This includes almonds, walnuts, macadamia nuts, peanuts and pumpkin seeds. Soy: Foods like tofu and tempeh are high in protein and fat, but low in carbs. This makes them acceptable on a low-carb vegetarian/vegan diet.

In broad terms, a low-carb diet focuses on proteins and some nonstarchy vegetables. A low-carb diet generally limits grains, legumes, fruits, breads, sweets, pastas and starchy vegetables, and sometimes nuts and seeds. But some low-carb diet plans allow small amounts of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Deficiencies in minerals such as iodine, calcium, and zinc may also occur. Iodine deficiency is very common among vegans, often leading to acquired hypothyroidism [58]. Vegan sources of iodine include iodized salt and sea vegetables containing various amounts of the mineral [45].

Some high-protein, low-carb vegetables include kale, spinach, Swiss chard, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.

Some high-protein diets limit carbs so much that you might not get enough nutrients or fiber. This can cause problems such as bad breath, headache and constipation. Some high-protein diets allow red meats, processed meats and other foods high in saturated fat. These foods may increase your risk of heart disease.

How do Indian vegetarians get their protein? ›

1. Sugary Foods. Most people already think of many of the foods in this category as unhealthy treats. Candy, soft drinks, and sweet desserts such as cake, chocolate, and ice cream are all expected entries on a list of carbs to avoid to lose weight.

Low energy: Carbs are your body's primary source of energy. Therefore, a no-carb diet may lead to low energy and fatigue. Insufficient nutrients: A no-carb diet may not provide enough vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, B vitamins, and vitamin C, which are abundant in fruits, vegetables, and other plant foods.

"Nut butter is high in fat and protein and suitable on a keto diet. Same with peanut butter, almond butter, and sunflower seed butter," says Crandall Snyder. "For me, choosing a variety of nut butters is optimal, since different nuts contain different beneficial vitamins and minerals," Godfrey recommends.

Although, vegans avoid foods derived from animals such as dairy and eggs, it is still possible as a vegan (someone who only eats vegetables, grains, nuts and fruits) to follow a low carb lifestyle.

Some plant-based foods, such as soybean products, seitan, beans, and lentils contain high amounts of protein. You can also find protein in nuts, whole grains like quinoa and amaranth, and hemp seeds. People following a vegan diet may need to plan in order to reach their daily protein goals.