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Plant-Powered Protein: Nutrition Essentials and Dietary Guidelines for All Ages
Where do I get my protein on a plant-based diet? Registered dietitians Brenda Davis and Vesanto Melina join agrologist Cory Davis for a deep dive into the politics and fallacies surrounding plant-based protein. Together, they present the science and studies that validate why protein derived from plants is not only comparable to protein from animal products but is also often superior to it! Readers are given a clear understanding of the role of macronutrients and micronutrients, and how the amino acids found in protein promote healthy growth. They learn how to determine their recommended daily allowance (RDA) for protein. The authors target specific age groups, as well as athletes and pregnant women, and offer recommendations for how to obtain all the vital protein and nutrients their bodies require. From a lower carbon footprint to plant compounds that help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, the case for eating more plant protein is strong. Pantry suggestions, cooking tips, quizzes and thirty recipes make it easy to put this essential information into practice.
192 pages, Paperback
Published March 28, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 5, 2023
Thanks NetGalley for a copy of this book.
There is a lot of information packed into this book. The book discusses the benefits of eating planet based protein instead of animal based, helps reading figure out how much protein they need and give cooking tips and recipes. The books starts briefly with some policies and politics around animal vs plant protein. I really enjoyed this section of the book as some of the information I had not heard before. Several chapters of this books breaks down what protein is, why we need it and how it is used by the body. These chapters were a bit too much science than I want to read. I have read some of this information in other vegan books and honestly once I read it, I forget it. The author then breaks down how much protein people need to consumer. I found this information the most helpful. Protein needs depend on the age and activeness of the individual which is discussed at length. Finally, recipes are provided with the break down of nutritional information which I find extremely helpful.
There is a lot of information packed into this book. The book discusses the benefits of eating planet based protein instead of animal based, helps reading figure out how much protein they need and give cooking tips and recipes. The books starts briefly with some policies and politics around animal vs plant protein. I really enjoyed this section of the book as some of the information I had not heard before. Several chapters of this books breaks down what protein is, why we need it and how it is used by the body. These chapters were a bit too much science than I want to read. I have read some of this information in other vegan books and honestly once I read it, I forget it. The author then breaks down how much protein people need to consumer. I found this information the most helpful. Protein needs depend on the age and activeness of the individual which is discussed at length. Finally, recipes are provided with the break down of nutritional information which I find extremely helpful.
May 19, 2023
If you want to geek out on the topic of protein, this is a great book. It is more for the nerdy and science minded but it isn’t so academic that the average person couldn’t read it. However I do think the average person might find it too technical or dry.
I like to geek out on nutrition but would have preferred this as an audiobook more than an ebook. I’m not sure I retained a lot of what I read either 😑
I found the research comprehensive and well organized.
That said, the recipes, as few are there are, were really lacking. I’m not sure why books are still being published with recipes for tofu scramble, green salads, and chia puddings. None of the recipes enticed me or my family
. Many of them relied heavily on dates. I also was surprised how low on protein or how little protein many of them had considering this is a book on protein. I am glad the recipes had nutritional info.
I’m not sure who I would recommend this too. It’s a little too niche and definitely not the right hook for the new vegan curious about where she will get her protein…
Perhaps it would have been a better book if it did the same with fat and carbohydrates and consulted with a vegan chef for recipes 🧐
Thanks netgalley for my ARC
I like to geek out on nutrition but would have preferred this as an audiobook more than an ebook. I’m not sure I retained a lot of what I read either 😑
I found the research comprehensive and well organized.
That said, the recipes, as few are there are, were really lacking. I’m not sure why books are still being published with recipes for tofu scramble, green salads, and chia puddings. None of the recipes enticed me or my family
. Many of them relied heavily on dates. I also was surprised how low on protein or how little protein many of them had considering this is a book on protein. I am glad the recipes had nutritional info.
I’m not sure who I would recommend this too. It’s a little too niche and definitely not the right hook for the new vegan curious about where she will get her protein…
Perhaps it would have been a better book if it did the same with fat and carbohydrates and consulted with a vegan chef for recipes 🧐
Thanks netgalley for my ARC
April 23, 2023
The one question that vegans get asked again and again is "But where do you get your protein?"
As a vegetarian (close to vegan for 42 years now), I guess I must be getting it from somewhere. I must be doing something right.
This book explains all. It goes through what protein is, and the difference between protein, carbs, and fats. The science is presented in an easy-to-understand way. It looks at why we view animal protein as superior and compares animal to plant protein in detail.
Sometimes books like this are religiously focused on whole foods, which can be off-putting for some people - this one talks about processed plant-based food (burgers, sausages, etc) having a place in your diet too. I thought this was a much more realistic perspective compared to some.
It has several chapters focusing on the reasons we should eat our protein from plants - from environmental reasons to health.
Then it moves on to recipes, giving plenty of simple recipes that are high in protein.
The only thing missing, in my opinion, was a chapter and recipes aimed at people who want to go on a plant-based diet to lose weight. Some of the breakfast recipes and smoothies have well over 500 calories, for example. On a 1200-calorie diet, that doesn't leave much for a protein-filled lunch and dinner (and snacks!) So, for me, that would have been a good extra chapter to include.
Apart from that, it's an excellent, and readable book. Even if you are not planning on going vegan, you could learn a lot from this book about how to increase the plant-based protein in your diet for health and environmental reasons.
As a vegetarian (close to vegan for 42 years now), I guess I must be getting it from somewhere. I must be doing something right.
This book explains all. It goes through what protein is, and the difference between protein, carbs, and fats. The science is presented in an easy-to-understand way. It looks at why we view animal protein as superior and compares animal to plant protein in detail.
Sometimes books like this are religiously focused on whole foods, which can be off-putting for some people - this one talks about processed plant-based food (burgers, sausages, etc) having a place in your diet too. I thought this was a much more realistic perspective compared to some.
It has several chapters focusing on the reasons we should eat our protein from plants - from environmental reasons to health.
Then it moves on to recipes, giving plenty of simple recipes that are high in protein.
The only thing missing, in my opinion, was a chapter and recipes aimed at people who want to go on a plant-based diet to lose weight. Some of the breakfast recipes and smoothies have well over 500 calories, for example. On a 1200-calorie diet, that doesn't leave much for a protein-filled lunch and dinner (and snacks!) So, for me, that would have been a good extra chapter to include.
Apart from that, it's an excellent, and readable book. Even if you are not planning on going vegan, you could learn a lot from this book about how to increase the plant-based protein in your diet for health and environmental reasons.
May 3, 2023
Thank you Netgalley and Healthy Living Publications, for this eCopy to review
This was an interesting read on the benefits of getting your protein from plants instead of meat. It was a bit to technical for me and being new to plant protein I would have liked more recipes. Those given were easy to follow and not too complicated for everyday eating
This was an interesting read on the benefits of getting your protein from plants instead of meat. It was a bit to technical for me and being new to plant protein I would have liked more recipes. Those given were easy to follow and not too complicated for everyday eating
August 11, 2023
For plant-based eaters, there are three certainties in life: death, taxes, and the proverbial question “Where do you get your protein?”
The first line from the book Plant Powered Protein by Brenda Davis, Vesanto Melina, and Cory Davis had me hooked at the very start. Because it’s so true! If I had a small coin for every person who’d asked me that since going vegan I’d be a very very wealthy woman right now.
This book a must have resource for anyone who wants to know the truth about our food, and find out more about the nutritional essentials of plant protein and a healthy vegan diet.
Plant vs Animal Protein
To introduce this book, we read about the history of how the quality of animal protein for people was overestimated, and the suitability of plant protein was underestimated. This simple nutritional assessment, based on the results of nutritional experiments on rats (not humans, rats) was to result in economic policies favouring meat and milk. These policies and resulting subsidies and still alive today. Our messages about nutrition are flawed and wrapped up in poor science, politics and economics. Health issues such as heart disease, cancer and type-2 diabetes started to increase, and are now responsible for approximately 70% of deaths worldwide.
The author goes into more details about the politics of protein and how the meat industry would in fact dwindle without hefty government support, as consumers would be paying the full cost. In fact, many of the foods we are told to avoid for health purposes are actually receiving huge subsidies. Corn syrup being just one example. Already, the first chapter of this book is hugely eye-opening and one I believe everyone should read.
Throughout the book, the authors share with us the protein content of plants vs animal proteins and the indisputable facts that animal products are significantly more carbon intensive and less healthy than plant foods. Our food choices are a powerful tool for our health and for the environment.
What is protein?
Davis, Melina and Davis describe in detail the role of protein (as well as carbohydrate and fat) in our diets. Proteins, built up of nine essential amino acids, are required for the structure, function and regulation of tissues and organs. Yet, as neatly explained here, an amino acid is simply an amino acid. It makes no difference if it comes from a plant or an animal. Another myth often perpetrated in anti-vegan texts.
Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash
And as for the question of getting enough protein. Most adults, including vegans, in Western countries get more than enough proteins. All grains, legumes, nuts and vegetables contain protein. Obviously, if a diet is centred around fruit (as recently seen in the news) it can be short of both protein and calories. But this is not a standard diet.
The Soy Controversy
I was very pleased to see the controversy around soy mentioned in this book. It’s a very important topic, and soy does not deserve the negative press it receives. More than a decade ago, theories were presented that the isoflavones in soy may mimic oestrogen, and potentially cause cancer. Despite being proven false, this myth continues to arise time and again in articles and threads.
The authors describe how soy consumption has been shown to actually protect against various cancers. In fact, men who regularly consume soy have a 29% lower risk of prostate cancer.
Meat Alternatives
It’s been all over the news lately that Beyond Meat are losing business and plummeting share values. Journalists around the globe have been quick to jump on the “meat alternative bashing” bandwagon and bash all meat alternatives with a virtual stick. Instead of seeing the logic, that perhaps consumers are switching to a cheaper meat alternative (as Beyond tends to be on the more expensive scale) these articles like to assume that everyone is rushing out to buy steaks and beef burgers again. I don’t see the evidence for this.
I agree with the authors of this book – meat alternatives can provide variety and be a small part of a wholesome diet. They are great for introducing sceptical friends and family to plant based foods, and they are very impressive imposters. We enjoy meat alternatives as part of our diet. There is nothing wrong with them.
Protein Sources, Mortality & Disease
Just when I thought this book couldn’t get anymore interesting, there is a whole chapter dedicated to looking at the relationship between protein, mortality and the risk of chronic disease.
You must read this chapter for yourself – but there truly are some jaw dropping statistics to be found here. For example, in the United States, a study by Tharrey in 2018, showed an increase of 12% in cardiovascular disease mortaility for each 18g of daily animal-protein intake.
The World Health Organization has declared processed meat a class 1 carcinogen. Not only does plant protein reduce these risks, but science suggests improved health in areas such as kidney function, inflammatory bowel diseases, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Plant Protein for Every Age
In this book, the authors assure us that plant protein is perfect for your children and teens. And if they grow up to become athletes – it’s perfect for building muscle and improving performance too. There’s no need for them to run towards the nearest steakhouse.
Indeed, a diet of whole plants foods will also increase your longevity into old age. One study found those eating vegetarian (near vegan) diets had a 38% lower risk of dementia.
Tips & Meals
If you’re looking for tips and meals for vegan diets, this book has a lovely chapter entirely based on helping you make healthy, nutritional choices. It also has some delicious recipes, which I highly recommend.
Highly Recommended
This book is honestly one of the best vegan resources I’ve read over the last decade. It’s seriously well researched and written, with honest facts about the truth behind the politics of food, and solid science based nutrition. I would recommend this book to absolutely everyone.
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me a free e-copy of this book for review purposes.
The first line from the book Plant Powered Protein by Brenda Davis, Vesanto Melina, and Cory Davis had me hooked at the very start. Because it’s so true! If I had a small coin for every person who’d asked me that since going vegan I’d be a very very wealthy woman right now.
This book a must have resource for anyone who wants to know the truth about our food, and find out more about the nutritional essentials of plant protein and a healthy vegan diet.
Plant vs Animal Protein
To introduce this book, we read about the history of how the quality of animal protein for people was overestimated, and the suitability of plant protein was underestimated. This simple nutritional assessment, based on the results of nutritional experiments on rats (not humans, rats) was to result in economic policies favouring meat and milk. These policies and resulting subsidies and still alive today. Our messages about nutrition are flawed and wrapped up in poor science, politics and economics. Health issues such as heart disease, cancer and type-2 diabetes started to increase, and are now responsible for approximately 70% of deaths worldwide.
The author goes into more details about the politics of protein and how the meat industry would in fact dwindle without hefty government support, as consumers would be paying the full cost. In fact, many of the foods we are told to avoid for health purposes are actually receiving huge subsidies. Corn syrup being just one example. Already, the first chapter of this book is hugely eye-opening and one I believe everyone should read.
Throughout the book, the authors share with us the protein content of plants vs animal proteins and the indisputable facts that animal products are significantly more carbon intensive and less healthy than plant foods. Our food choices are a powerful tool for our health and for the environment.
What is protein?
Davis, Melina and Davis describe in detail the role of protein (as well as carbohydrate and fat) in our diets. Proteins, built up of nine essential amino acids, are required for the structure, function and regulation of tissues and organs. Yet, as neatly explained here, an amino acid is simply an amino acid. It makes no difference if it comes from a plant or an animal. Another myth often perpetrated in anti-vegan texts.
Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash
And as for the question of getting enough protein. Most adults, including vegans, in Western countries get more than enough proteins. All grains, legumes, nuts and vegetables contain protein. Obviously, if a diet is centred around fruit (as recently seen in the news) it can be short of both protein and calories. But this is not a standard diet.
The Soy Controversy
I was very pleased to see the controversy around soy mentioned in this book. It’s a very important topic, and soy does not deserve the negative press it receives. More than a decade ago, theories were presented that the isoflavones in soy may mimic oestrogen, and potentially cause cancer. Despite being proven false, this myth continues to arise time and again in articles and threads.
The authors describe how soy consumption has been shown to actually protect against various cancers. In fact, men who regularly consume soy have a 29% lower risk of prostate cancer.
Meat Alternatives
It’s been all over the news lately that Beyond Meat are losing business and plummeting share values. Journalists around the globe have been quick to jump on the “meat alternative bashing” bandwagon and bash all meat alternatives with a virtual stick. Instead of seeing the logic, that perhaps consumers are switching to a cheaper meat alternative (as Beyond tends to be on the more expensive scale) these articles like to assume that everyone is rushing out to buy steaks and beef burgers again. I don’t see the evidence for this.
I agree with the authors of this book – meat alternatives can provide variety and be a small part of a wholesome diet. They are great for introducing sceptical friends and family to plant based foods, and they are very impressive imposters. We enjoy meat alternatives as part of our diet. There is nothing wrong with them.
Protein Sources, Mortality & Disease
Just when I thought this book couldn’t get anymore interesting, there is a whole chapter dedicated to looking at the relationship between protein, mortality and the risk of chronic disease.
You must read this chapter for yourself – but there truly are some jaw dropping statistics to be found here. For example, in the United States, a study by Tharrey in 2018, showed an increase of 12% in cardiovascular disease mortaility for each 18g of daily animal-protein intake.
The World Health Organization has declared processed meat a class 1 carcinogen. Not only does plant protein reduce these risks, but science suggests improved health in areas such as kidney function, inflammatory bowel diseases, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Plant Protein for Every Age
In this book, the authors assure us that plant protein is perfect for your children and teens. And if they grow up to become athletes – it’s perfect for building muscle and improving performance too. There’s no need for them to run towards the nearest steakhouse.
Indeed, a diet of whole plants foods will also increase your longevity into old age. One study found those eating vegetarian (near vegan) diets had a 38% lower risk of dementia.
Tips & Meals
If you’re looking for tips and meals for vegan diets, this book has a lovely chapter entirely based on helping you make healthy, nutritional choices. It also has some delicious recipes, which I highly recommend.
Highly Recommended
This book is honestly one of the best vegan resources I’ve read over the last decade. It’s seriously well researched and written, with honest facts about the truth behind the politics of food, and solid science based nutrition. I would recommend this book to absolutely everyone.
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me a free e-copy of this book for review purposes.
Read
May 19, 2023Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Plant-Powered Protein is a tutorial and theory guide to eating adequate protein on a plant-based diet written and curated by dietitians Brenda Davis and Vesanto Melina, and agronomist Cory Davis. Released 28th March 2023, it's 192 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
The authors are professionals working in nutrition and allied fields (one is an agronomist). They provide science and practice based research for their assertions. The authors expend a considerable amount of effort exploring the background of some of the sociopolitical realities behind farm subsidies and lobbying and how they affect meat farming and agriculture, especially in the US.
The content is arranged in chapters thematically, exploring protein in general, and by life phase (pregnancy, lactation, infancy, toddler, up through adult). The chapters are *full* of raw data and statistics, tables, and expository information which gives an overall thorough and convincing picture of the benefits and realities of plant based diets. This is a monograph on plant based protein, and NOT much of a cookbook. There are some recipes gathered in the final chapter of the book which are varied and attractive, but they're not the chief focus of the book.
Recipes are written with a description/intro, ingredients in a bullet list, and followed by step by step prep and cooking directions. Ingredient measurements are provided in imperial (American) units, with metric measures in parentheses (yay!!). Nutritional info is included for each recipe, as well as alternative ingredients for taste or necessary dietary restrictions. Most of the recipes include one or more color photos. Serving suggestions are attractive and appealing.
Four stars. An enthusiastically and motivationally written book with very general recipes. Readers will likely need more specific training advice as well as a broader selection of recipes. What the book does, and does well, is make a compelling argument for plant based nutrition being beneficial for health and performance as well as the heath of our biosphere. It also includes a comprehensive cross-referenced index for finding information quickly; important as this is a very very information dense volume full of tables and statistics. It would be well suited to readers who are looking for reference material, not chiefly for the recipes. It would also be a good selection for more formal classroom use for diet/nutrition and allied subjects.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Plant-Powered Protein is a tutorial and theory guide to eating adequate protein on a plant-based diet written and curated by dietitians Brenda Davis and Vesanto Melina, and agronomist Cory Davis. Released 28th March 2023, it's 192 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
The authors are professionals working in nutrition and allied fields (one is an agronomist). They provide science and practice based research for their assertions. The authors expend a considerable amount of effort exploring the background of some of the sociopolitical realities behind farm subsidies and lobbying and how they affect meat farming and agriculture, especially in the US.
The content is arranged in chapters thematically, exploring protein in general, and by life phase (pregnancy, lactation, infancy, toddler, up through adult). The chapters are *full* of raw data and statistics, tables, and expository information which gives an overall thorough and convincing picture of the benefits and realities of plant based diets. This is a monograph on plant based protein, and NOT much of a cookbook. There are some recipes gathered in the final chapter of the book which are varied and attractive, but they're not the chief focus of the book.
Recipes are written with a description/intro, ingredients in a bullet list, and followed by step by step prep and cooking directions. Ingredient measurements are provided in imperial (American) units, with metric measures in parentheses (yay!!). Nutritional info is included for each recipe, as well as alternative ingredients for taste or necessary dietary restrictions. Most of the recipes include one or more color photos. Serving suggestions are attractive and appealing.
Four stars. An enthusiastically and motivationally written book with very general recipes. Readers will likely need more specific training advice as well as a broader selection of recipes. What the book does, and does well, is make a compelling argument for plant based nutrition being beneficial for health and performance as well as the heath of our biosphere. It also includes a comprehensive cross-referenced index for finding information quickly; important as this is a very very information dense volume full of tables and statistics. It would be well suited to readers who are looking for reference material, not chiefly for the recipes. It would also be a good selection for more formal classroom use for diet/nutrition and allied subjects.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
May 9, 2023
Honestly, the main focus of this book is proving that you can meet your protein needs on a vegan diet. It’s very scientific and goes into way more detail than I need on things like what every amino acid does. It also goes into all the stuff about how most people eat too much protein, how animal products are destroying the environment, etc. I am already quite familiar with all that. Where I thought the book was strongest were the chapters on individual needs, like for pregnant and breastfeeding people (they say women but trans and non-binary folks can get pregnant and breastfeed too), kids, seniors, athletes, etc.
I am over 50 now and need far more protein than I usually get. I’m only 5 feet tall and don’t weigh a lot, so I don’t take in that many calories anyway. And I’m keto for health reasons. I need healthy fats and more protein than I’m getting, and I like to concentrate on whole food and healthy ingredients. I was hoping this book would just help me work more plant based protein into my diet. The majority of the book isn’t for this purpose— it’s for convincing you to go vegan, explaining protein and amino acids, and then a few fairly generic vegan recipes. I appreciated that these have very complete nutritional information, but most of them were very high in carbs and also frequently very high in calories too. To maintain my weight at my size I only need 1200 calories a day, so a 500 calorie smoothie or bowl of oatmeal isn’t going to work for me. And that oatmeal has over 90 grams of carbs so I’d be over my daily carb licking the spoon.
I also disagreed with not mentioning health issues with processed meat substitutes and GMO, pesticide-laden products like nonorganic soy. I agree with the authors that science has shown that soy is generally quite beneficial, but not once we’re talking processed, polluted, genetically engineered soy. I felt that anything that wasn’t rah rah vegan was conveniently ignored, which takes away any faith I have in a resource.
The middle section is a good read, and will be helpful for vegans who want to understand their changing needs. Check it out at your library and see if the book is a good fit for you.
I read a digital review copy of this book via NetGalley.
I am over 50 now and need far more protein than I usually get. I’m only 5 feet tall and don’t weigh a lot, so I don’t take in that many calories anyway. And I’m keto for health reasons. I need healthy fats and more protein than I’m getting, and I like to concentrate on whole food and healthy ingredients. I was hoping this book would just help me work more plant based protein into my diet. The majority of the book isn’t for this purpose— it’s for convincing you to go vegan, explaining protein and amino acids, and then a few fairly generic vegan recipes. I appreciated that these have very complete nutritional information, but most of them were very high in carbs and also frequently very high in calories too. To maintain my weight at my size I only need 1200 calories a day, so a 500 calorie smoothie or bowl of oatmeal isn’t going to work for me. And that oatmeal has over 90 grams of carbs so I’d be over my daily carb licking the spoon.
I also disagreed with not mentioning health issues with processed meat substitutes and GMO, pesticide-laden products like nonorganic soy. I agree with the authors that science has shown that soy is generally quite beneficial, but not once we’re talking processed, polluted, genetically engineered soy. I felt that anything that wasn’t rah rah vegan was conveniently ignored, which takes away any faith I have in a resource.
The middle section is a good read, and will be helpful for vegans who want to understand their changing needs. Check it out at your library and see if the book is a good fit for you.
I read a digital review copy of this book via NetGalley.
May 11, 2023
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
This is a nicely presented book that is perfect for those who are curious about or interested in learning more about plant protein. Whether an athlete, pregnant mother, senior, or layman, this explains everything you need to know about protein: from the biological aspects to why certain sources are better than others.The book breaks down as follows: Plant and animal protein: setting the stage; What is protein and why does it matter; Amino acids: the building blocks; Which foods provide protein; the environmental costs of protein choices; Protein in health and disease; Global protein: a planet in peril; Protein during pregnancy and lactation; Infants and toddlers, children and teens; Protein for plant-based athletes; Energetic elders, The plant-based plate, tips, and menus, The protein-powered kitchen, recipes.
Because of the colorful presentation, I highly recommend the print version over the Kindle. There are charts, graphs, and other visual aids to explain the concepts, many of which are somewhat difficult to read on a Kindle. Since it is such good information, you really do want easy access to it.
The recipes in back are your standard plant-powered staples: overnight oats, chia seed pudding, etc. etc. There are photographs of the recipes; they are pretty simple and should be straightforward to make.
The book is backed up by the research, making this ideal for skeptics who always seem to feel that a plant-based diet is never going to be healthy or able to deliver protein. As well, the importance for the planet and environment of eating less meat is a good starting point to understanding why the change is important. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
October 1, 2025
3.5 rounded up. To be clear, this is very well researched and there’s a lot of great information here. Unfortunately the execution is a little off—I’m not entirely sure who the audience is. Is this meant to be a textbook? Some of the informational content is very dense. This would make sense for a diet/nutrition course for instance. But then there is the recipe section at the end that feels like it’s more for the person wanting to try this lifestyle—yet this section seemed much lighter on recipes than I expected if that were the case. I wish the research section were a little more streamlined and edited, but I think there’s this need to constantly be on defense with vegan diets (understandably) and feeling like you have to beat people over the head with research to prove you really can eat this way and get plenty of protein.
A critique for the e-book: the graphs and charts are VERY hard to read in the e-book because the contrast sucks and makes them hard to read, which is such a bummer since they have great info in them. Whoever was in charge of that put zero effort into making sure the e-book was actually optimized for e-reader use.
A critique for the e-book: the graphs and charts are VERY hard to read in the e-book because the contrast sucks and makes them hard to read, which is such a bummer since they have great info in them. Whoever was in charge of that put zero effort into making sure the e-book was actually optimized for e-reader use.
April 23, 2023
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was most interested in this book for the recipes, but that was only a small part of this book.
This book has A LOT of information about eating protein. About two thirds of the book focuses on how much protein is in different foods, why we need protein, and the benefits of plant-based protein. Some of the information is very technical and felt a bit heavy-handed at times. If you're interested in why plant-based protein may be the way to good this is a helpful book, but if you're already on board with plant-based protein this book may not be particularly helpful.
For the recipes there's no photos and not a lot of variety. The book talks about meat-alternatives like seitan and Beyond meat as well as naturally protein rich foods like legumes and hemp hearts. There's some recipes to include more protein in your diet and a lot of information about why you should.
I was most interested in this book for the recipes, but that was only a small part of this book.
This book has A LOT of information about eating protein. About two thirds of the book focuses on how much protein is in different foods, why we need protein, and the benefits of plant-based protein. Some of the information is very technical and felt a bit heavy-handed at times. If you're interested in why plant-based protein may be the way to good this is a helpful book, but if you're already on board with plant-based protein this book may not be particularly helpful.
For the recipes there's no photos and not a lot of variety. The book talks about meat-alternatives like seitan and Beyond meat as well as naturally protein rich foods like legumes and hemp hearts. There's some recipes to include more protein in your diet and a lot of information about why you should.
May 16, 2023
Like many, I'm trying to reduce my intake of red meat and eat a more plant based diet. The protein aspect of veganism has long been its Achilles heel, thanks to inaccurate reporting in the press. I've frankly been wary about a plant based diet because of misconceptions about protein and worries that I wouldn't easily get all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
This book counters all the arguments. It is extremely comprehensive with data presented in a readable way - "jaw droppers" for example. The book confronts the arguments around the environmental impact of plant based diets versus meat based.
It covers how to calculate how much protein you need for a day. Two grams of protein per kilogram of body weight is considered a safe upper limit.
Dietary advice and recipes are given for infants and toddlers, children and teens, plant-based athletes and energetic elders. It's pleasing to see ingredients quoted both for the US (cups) and Europe (ML/grammes).
This book counters all the arguments. It is extremely comprehensive with data presented in a readable way - "jaw droppers" for example. The book confronts the arguments around the environmental impact of plant based diets versus meat based.
It covers how to calculate how much protein you need for a day. Two grams of protein per kilogram of body weight is considered a safe upper limit.
Dietary advice and recipes are given for infants and toddlers, children and teens, plant-based athletes and energetic elders. It's pleasing to see ingredients quoted both for the US (cups) and Europe (ML/grammes).
April 25, 2023
As someone who has been eating a plant based diet for almost 5 years, I still continue to read and learn more about the benefits of it.
Ironically enough, I've only had 1 person in all that time ask me where I get my protein from! And if you're curious - beans, tofu, veggies, and I do also use a plant based protein powder once a day.
This was a great read on the health benefits of eating whole foods and eliminating animal products. It also gives great insight to the impact that the meat industry has on the environment and our health.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!
Ironically enough, I've only had 1 person in all that time ask me where I get my protein from! And if you're curious - beans, tofu, veggies, and I do also use a plant based protein powder once a day.
This was a great read on the health benefits of eating whole foods and eliminating animal products. It also gives great insight to the impact that the meat industry has on the environment and our health.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!
June 8, 2023
I love Plant Powered Protein! At last at age 83 there are guidelines and suggestions with specifics on sarcopenia and osteoporosis not found anywhere else. This book is not just for me at my age. It provides answers for everyone: my infant great-grandchild, her lactating mother and various other family members who are athletes.
It is a dynamite combination of concise evidence based facts, followed by guidelines and easy to apply ingredients, foods, recipes and meal plans to get started immediately!
So needed; so great!
Thank you. I no longer feel like I"m wandering in the forest of life on my own.
It is a dynamite combination of concise evidence based facts, followed by guidelines and easy to apply ingredients, foods, recipes and meal plans to get started immediately!
So needed; so great!
Thank you. I no longer feel like I"m wandering in the forest of life on my own.
May 22, 2023
Plant-Powered Protein is packed with facts about vegan protein sources. Not only does it talk about the role of protein in our diets, it gives very specific information as to the amount of protein we need at each stage of life. It also includes sections for athletes and pregnant and nursing individuals. At times, it felt like it was geared towards dieticians and other health care professionals, but for the most part, it was accessible enough for laypersons such as myself. (Caveat: I have been doing a LOT of learning about plant-based nutrition so I'm arguably more knowledgeable about this topic than many of my peers.) My only criticism is that I would have loved to see more recipes included.
Thanks to Healthy Living Publications, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles, and NetGalley for a review copy.
Thanks to Healthy Living Publications, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles, and NetGalley for a review copy.
May 31, 2023
This is a great book for anyone starting a plant-based/vegetarian lifestyle. The main focus is on protein, where we get it, and how much we need. It’s great for a beginner because it explains in an easy-to-understand way the difference between protein, carbs and fats. It does include some simple recipes that are high in protein, however, I would have liked to have seen more recipes included in the book.
April 27, 2023
A book packed with facts about plant based protein. Well worth the read! If you eat plant based, you plan on doing it, or have a general interest in the subject, then this is the book for you! The facts and figures, plus the studies shown in the book show that plants are more than enough! Personally I would not have added recipes into this book, but I am sure some will find them useful as well.
July 11, 2023
Not only did Plant-Powered Protein have easy to follow recipes, it also broke down the history and evolution of our present day diets and how those habits are a danger to our Earth and health. Further, it broke down, into chapters, guidelines for different populations (children, elderly, pregnant women, etc). I’d recommend this book to anyone toying with the idea of going plant-based.
August 7, 2023
This would be good for people that want to know the ins and outs of plant based proteins. The science and reasoning behind it. That wasn’t me because I’ve already done the research and really just wanted more plant based protein options. I had to search through for what I needed.
The recipes are well written with nutritional breakdown. They just weren’t for me.
The recipes are well written with nutritional breakdown. They just weren’t for me.
April 26, 2023
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
With many people choosing more plant-based eating, this is a great book to make sure you are receiving your body's nutritional needs. An excellent resource, and recommended.
With many people choosing more plant-based eating, this is a great book to make sure you are receiving your body's nutritional needs. An excellent resource, and recommended.
April 26, 2023
I was hoping it to be less scientific and more logic or practical with recipes. Also when I read that plant diet helps with erection problems I stopped reading. I love my veggies and absolutely believe in growing my own veggies to fight climate change but I cannot stand by false propaganda.
May 17, 2023
This was a fascinating read and I learnt so much about plant proteins. The ideas and recipes were great, easy and achievable. This is definately a book I will be returning to often. Was a bit doubtful about cookies with black beans in but they were delicious and addictive.
November 13, 2023
This is a great guide to understanding what proteins are and how fundamental they are to your diet. It provides scientific explanations to proteins and its components followed by some recipes to best put this in practice.
December 21, 2023
A very well researched and information heavy book on the impact of proteins and sourcing plant=based proteins instead of meat. Some fairly scary statistics and some good nutritional and scientific info. The recipes are okay, but this is definitely more of an education than a cookbook.
May 15, 2023
This is more about the information about plant based protein and the science and history behind it. It has a few recipes in it too.
September 20, 2024
So much great advice and science behind a plant-based diet. Makes me want to seriously consider veganism.
September 7, 2025
Great resource
Very informative and accessible book about protein, how much we need at different life stages, and best plant-based sources as well as recipes.
Very informative and accessible book about protein, how much we need at different life stages, and best plant-based sources as well as recipes.
April 20, 2026
Great for my education and my cancer survivorship practice. I brought it to work last week and showed it to at least half a dozen patients.
May 24, 2023
Synopsis (from Netgalley, the provider of the book for me to review.)
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Discover how to meet your protein needs on a plant-based diet. Registered dietitians Brenda Davis and Vesanto Melina join agrologist Cory Davis for a deep dive into the politics and fallacies surrounding plant-based protein. Together, they present the science and studies that validate why protein derived from plants is not only comparable to protein from animal products but is also often superior to it!
Readers are given a clear understanding of the role of macronutrients and micronutrients, and how the amino acids found in protein promote healthy growth. They learn how to determine their recommended daily allowance (RDA) for protein. The authors target specific age groups, as well as athletes and pregnant women, and offer recommendations for how to obtain all the vital protein and nutrients their bodies require.
From a lower carbon footprint to plant compounds that help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, the case for eating more plant protein is strong. Pantry suggestions, cooking tips, and thirty recipes make it easy to put this essential information into practice.
I always remember from high school home-ec - eat rice and beans together to get a complete protein: this goes well beyond it. There is a lot of information in this book and it is all helpful in how to get enough protein via plants and plant-based foods. The recipes are well written and understandable by cooks of all levels and you can easily add animal products or meat to them to make everyone in your family happy. And if you are into carb footprint and plant compounds, this is an extra special book.
A personal aside from me .. chicken has one ingredient and "chik'n" has 80+ - which do you think is better for you???
We cannot keep plant-based diet books on our shelves and I can see this one will be checked out often.
#shortbutsweetreviews
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Discover how to meet your protein needs on a plant-based diet. Registered dietitians Brenda Davis and Vesanto Melina join agrologist Cory Davis for a deep dive into the politics and fallacies surrounding plant-based protein. Together, they present the science and studies that validate why protein derived from plants is not only comparable to protein from animal products but is also often superior to it!
Readers are given a clear understanding of the role of macronutrients and micronutrients, and how the amino acids found in protein promote healthy growth. They learn how to determine their recommended daily allowance (RDA) for protein. The authors target specific age groups, as well as athletes and pregnant women, and offer recommendations for how to obtain all the vital protein and nutrients their bodies require.
From a lower carbon footprint to plant compounds that help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, the case for eating more plant protein is strong. Pantry suggestions, cooking tips, and thirty recipes make it easy to put this essential information into practice.
I always remember from high school home-ec - eat rice and beans together to get a complete protein: this goes well beyond it. There is a lot of information in this book and it is all helpful in how to get enough protein via plants and plant-based foods. The recipes are well written and understandable by cooks of all levels and you can easily add animal products or meat to them to make everyone in your family happy. And if you are into carb footprint and plant compounds, this is an extra special book.
A personal aside from me .. chicken has one ingredient and "chik'n" has 80+ - which do you think is better for you???
We cannot keep plant-based diet books on our shelves and I can see this one will be checked out often.
#shortbutsweetreviews
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