Choose whole grains like whole wheat products, rolled oats, brown rice, whole corn meal products, popcorn, buckwheat, millet and unpearled barley. Whole grains still retain their naturally occuring vitamins, minerals and fiber, and are the best source of complex carbohydrates.
Plant food is a good source of protein.
Dark leafy vegetables, cabbage-family vegetables, all fresh beans and peas, and all sprouts contain between 15 and 45 percent of their calories in protein. Vegetarian foods highest in protein include legumes, soy products and some nuts. Research indicates soy protein may help prevent heart disease and cancer. The key to a healthy vegetarian diet is to eat a wide variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, whole grains and cereals, nuts, seeds, peas and beans, etc. By Alisha Woolery Cincinnati.