Do I need to combine proteins on a vegetarian/vegan diet?

Answer 1

Protein combining (also protein complementing) is the theory, now largely discredited, that vegetarians must eat foods such as beans and rice together, or at least on the same day, so the different amino acids in the foods combine to form a "complete" protein, containing all eight essential amino acids necessary for human growth and maintenance. In fact, all essential amino acids are present in common individual plant foods, including beans, rice, potatoes, and corn.

Answer 2

This is a very tricky topic mainly because within the vegetarian and vegan community there are a wide variety of diets. Just because one refuses to eat meat (or other animal products) doesn’t mean one must eat like all others who make that choice. Some people decide to become a vegetarian and then eat junk and candy all day. Obviously this is a bad idea, and I know that you Miss Cannibal, are already well aware of that. I think the idea should be that when someone decides to become a vegetarian or vegan, they need to make sure they research it thoroughly like you do, to know what protein requirements are, and how to meet them. Also, I’ve notice a lot of people here in the vegetarian and vegan section seem to think that “protein requirements are not as high as meat eaters tell you.” The problem with this is that protein requirements can vary from person to person by a wide margin, and it also depends on your goals. A sedentary person looking to just barely avoid a protein deficiency requires very little protein. A bodybuilder trying to add muscle generally needs a lot (according to the vast majority of bodybuilders). High protein diets are VERY common for bodybuilders slimming down for a competition; because they are great for fat loss. So when I say that a new vegetarian/vegan needs to do research, this research needs to be applicable to themselves, and not sweeping generalizations. Is it possible to be vegetarian/vegan and still get all the protein you need? Yes. See my source for some interesting info about this. It’s a protein argument between two professionals. They both agree that high protein diets are good for losing fat; but one says that you can actually not only avoid a deficit with lower protein intake, but build good muscle too. It’s not about veganism specifically, but it relates to it via the protein debate. I think you may enjoy reading it.

Answer 3

Amino acids obtained from food can combine with amino acids made in the body it is not necessary to combine protein foods at each meal. Adequate amounts of amino acids will be obtained if a varied vegan diet - containing unrefined grains, legumes, seeds, nuts and vegetables - is eaten on a daily basis.
"Food combining" is another term for the Hay diet and has nothing to do with the concept of protein combining.

Answer 4

No. You don't. Eat a well rounded veggie meal and you'll be just fine. Watch out for the processed food stuffs. Don't eat too much pre-packaged veggie meats. They are loaded in chemicals that you just don't need and especially don't want. Plain old tofu or seitan is nice. But don't over do with vegan "cheese" or soy dogs. Too much processing. Too much chemical.

Eat fresh foods. Frozen is ok too. Frozen actually has begun the break down for you so it can be easier to digest. Depending on the item at hand.

Whole grains, whole grain bread, whole grain pasta, brown rice, hundreds of different kinds of beanss. All of these will do you just fine.

Answer 5

As KitKat said it's not needed. You body will store excess amino acids in the bloodstream for as long as two weeks waiting for whatever other amide is needed to complete protein synthesis. You can use the link listed below to see the protein and amide content of your food using the link below. You'll be amazed at how much protein you actually eat!

Answer 6

No, that's just silly.
Our bodies do not combine protiens, they break them down into amino acids, then recombine them into proteins to utilize. The key it to eat foods rich in amino acids as breaking down protein to get at the amino acids takes more energy. It's a waste. Amino acids are stored for further use later. No need to combine then at one meal. Same goes for all other nutrients etc. We have storage systems.

Answer 7

It is a good idea, but i would do it for taste also, to vary the types of beans and other protein sources.

Answer 8

Yes, if you want to nourish your muscles properly. Some people can't take in protein, usually for certain digestive problems.Try using protein powder in your drinks. They are usually complete with all the proteins you need.

Answer 9

Eat a Soy Product ( Soy Burger Soy Hot Dog etc. ) a Day.