Protein is an extremely essential requirement in the overall development of the body. Amongst all the nutrients that are useful for our body, protein is a macronutrient  that helps build the muscle mass in our bodies. While most people believe that only animals area great source of proteins, the highly understated vegetarian sources also provide with a high amount of proteins.

Apart from proteins being a great nutrient to help build your muscles, there are numerous other benefits of proteins. Rich in great nutritional value proteins is directly involved in the chemical processes that are essential for the overall functioning of the body. So, for all the people who think that there is a scarcity of vegetarian sources of protein, here are 7 of them.

Seitan- Seitan also called the 'vegetarian chicken' is an excellent source of protein that even tastes like chicken. Made from gluten from the wheat it even carries the texture like meat. Also, every 100 grams contains about 25 grams of protein.

Soybeans- Different soybean products like Tofu and Tempeh are a great source of protein as well. Soybeans are considered a whole source of protein, and is excellent food for the people suffering from protein deficiency.

Lentils- Almost a staple of every Indian household, even a small bowl of lentils or dahls consist about18 grams of protein. Moreover, there are so many types of lentils available as well.

Beans- Right from Chickpeas and other types of Beans like Kidney beans, black beans, etc. contain high amounts of protein. A cup of chickpeas or beans consists about 15 grams of proteins. Moreover, they are rich in complex carbs, iron, phosphorus, folate, potassium, fibre, manganese, etc.

Green Peas- Do not under-estimate the power of little green peas. About a small cup of green peas contain about 9 grams of protein. Also, it is rich in vitamin C, A, K, daily fibre, folate, thiamine, etc.

Amaranth and Quinoa- This ancient gluten-free grain is both great for your weight loss and your protein requirement. A cup of Quinoa contains about 8- 9 grams of protein.

Oats- Oats and oatmeals can act as a perfect protein-rich breakfast that you can have. Half a cup of dry oats provides you with approximately 6 grams of protein. It is also rich in fibre and can help you reach your weight loss goals.

Yes! There are lots of vegetarian sources of proteins that you might want to include in your diet, and if you are a non-vegetarian, you can add these vegetarian sources of proteins to give your diet a healthy variety.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 01, 2018 08:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).