Protein is primarily used by the body for growth and repair. This means our highest protein requirements occur during periods of rapid growth, such as infancy, childhood, and adolescence. Outside of severe starvation, true protein deficiency is extremely rare. In fact, protein exists in every living cell, and almost all natural foods contain some amount of protein. If you are eating enough food to feel satisfied, your protein needs are very likely already being met.

In many people’s minds, protein is synonymous with meat and animal products. But consider this: where do large, strong animals like horses and elephants get their protein? Only plants have the ability to manufacture protein using sunlight, air, water, and nutrients from the soil. Animals obtain protein either directly from plants or indirectly by eating other animals that consume plants.

The important takeaway is simple — we, too, can obtain our protein directly from the original source: plants.