LIFESTYLE NEWS - Let’s talk about protein.

The word "protein" comes from the Greek proteios, which means "of prime importance".

Proteins consist of amino acids that build and repair damaged tissue. As adults we need as little as 0.8gm per kilogram x our weight: about 50 to 60 grams daily.

Culturally, the Western world associates protein with essential food, in the form of meat from animals.

However, if we consume a 200g steak, half of it will be 100g of protein. This is already more than our recommended daily intake.

Dr Colin Campbell, a renowned nutritional researcher, has proved that a high intake of animal protein is convincingly associated with cancer, diabetes and coronary disease, as reported in The China Study.

Plant protein, on the other hand, caused cancerous tumours to shrink.

Genesis 1:29, in the Bible, supports this science as plants were designed as the ideal food for humans. While the Creator also gave us animals to eat (Genesis 9:1), the blueprint is still valid for our main meals to be plant-based, with animal protein in small amounts. If we keep this balance, we will have energy and be healthy.

Protein-rich vegetarian options include beans, peas, broccoli, spinach, mushrooms and lentils.

Vegetarian ideas: think Mexican tacos filled with spicy beans and avocado pear; Indian-style curries such as lentils (dahl) with spinach and rice; risottos, pastas and burger patties made using mushrooms; olive or green leaf pestos; and vegetable bakes. - June McGahey, natural food and lifestyle consultant.

'We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news'