Rumors have been swirling around about this for quite some time. I thought it was time to tell the truth. I do, in fact, on many days get most of my protein from nuts. Or a delicious combination of nuts and legumes. The Wild Juggler is in fact a vegetarian.
So how is this possible? Is he, yet again, violating the laws of physics? Truth be told, nuts are a great source of protein.
1/4 cup of almonds contains about 6 grams of protein.
While it also has a lot of fat, it is mostly the healthy, unsaturated kind of fat. Almonds and many other nuts are also good sources of fiber, minerals, and protective phyto-chemicals, similar to the ones in tea and some vegetables. I love my nuts raw and unprocessed. I don’t eat nuts that have added oils, salt, sugar or anything. Read labels. I often snack on nuts after a long joggle.
If you’re afraid that eating nuts will cause weight gain, do not worry. I eat tons of nuts almost every day; if you’ve been pecan at my photos, you know I’m not exactly obese. Still not convinced?
According to Fitwatch.com, eating nuts regularly can help you lose weight by speeding up your metabolism – Why Eating Nuts Can Help You Lose Weight
Fiber, always your friend, helps prevent the fat from getting absorbed. I think nuts are a great way to replace meat and dairy in your diet. People who eat a lot of nuts are generally slimmer, on average than those who eat the least. Nut butters make a great snack and are good for making sandwiches. Peanut butter is one of my favorites, though technically, peanuts are a legume.
I totally love nuts. When people call me a “nut”, I take it as a compliment. So go nuts with nuts, and try to violate the laws of physics with your fitness routine!
AcroTrekker 
Pistachios are my favorite! I also (when I have time) like to make nut “cheeses” out of raw cashews, almonds, pecans or macadamia nuts.
I’ve been kind of worried about my protein intake lately, after 14 years vegan. Anything else you recommend?
I don’t think I’ll be telling you anything you don’t already know, but if I really want to ensure I am getting enough protein, I eat a lot of red lentils. A 1/4 cup of red lentils has 13 grams of protein – at least the brand I have here does.
Sometimes I even use vegan protein powder to make a protein shake after heavy training if I don’t have the stomach for real food, to make sure I recover properly. I only do this occasionally though. More often I eat sunflower seeds or almonds; I like pistachios too, but I prefer almonds usually.
I think there are some lentils or peas with even more protein than red lentils, but I forget which type. Cashew later!
Happy Holidays!
I’m enjoying your blog! You manage to make these fact-filled posts humorous. I love nuts too, though I’m not a vegetarian. I crave walnuts and almonds and keep a bag in the car to munch on after running.
Thanks for dropping by, Lucinda. I’m glad you like my blog; yours is quite interesting too. You were in a punk band? I was in one too! But briefly… and many years ago. Keep rockin’ and runnin’…
Cool! Yes, I was in the Brood and the Gorehounds in the 80s, and the Slips a few years ago. I’ve got too many other interests at the moment, but the bass and amp are still around in case the urge strikes and time permits.