Why do high-protein diets feel heavy in the summer? Learn about the lightest and best plant-based protein options.

News Topical, Digital Desk : As summer approaches, people's eating habits naturally change. While winter brings increased hunger and people can easily eat heavy meals, summer brings on a feeling of fullness. Many people start eating lighter, some skip meals, and others rely solely on salads or fruit. However, a major problem arises: protein deficiency. When people reduce their food intake, they often also lose protein. Initially, the effects may not be noticeable, but after a few days, the body begins to show signs of this. Plant-based protein can be very useful during these times, especially when prepared and consumed correctly. So, let's explore why a high-protein diet can feel heavy in summer, and what are the best light plant-based protein options. 

Why does a high-protein diet feel heavy in summer?

Heat doesn't just affect the outside temperature, but also the processes inside the body. High temperatures can often lead to a loss of appetite, reduced stomach acid production, and discomfort in heavy foods. This is why foods that were perfectly fine in winter can cause heaviness, gas, or lethargy in summer. Protein is a nutrient that requires a little more effort for the body to digest. Consuming this protein from heavy pulses or poorly prepared plant sources can put even more strain on the intestines. This doesn't mean that plant protein is bad. The point is that a balance between the weather and the way you eat is essential.

What is the lightest and best plant-based protein option?

1. Fermented lentil batters -  Fermented batters, used for dosa, idli, or lentil cheela, are a great summer option. They're easy to digest, promote better nutrient absorption, and are light on the stomach. The fermentation process reduces some of the nutrients in lentils that can hinder digestion.

2. Tofu - Tofu is a light and high-quality protein source made from soybeans. You can eat it in a variety of ways, such as lightly sautéed, mixed into vegetables, or mixed into salads. It provides a good amount of protein without making your stomach feel heavy. 

3. Tempeh - Tempeh is also made from soybeans, but it's fermented. This makes it easier to digest than regular soybeans. It's not very common in India yet, but its consumption is slowly increasing. 

4. Sattu Drink - Sattu is considered a traditional summer superfood. Sattu is cooling, rich in protein, and easily digestible. Salty or sweet sattu drinks can be an excellent protein option in the summer. 
 
5. Moong Dal Options - Moong dal is considered one of the lightest summer pulses. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as moong dal cheela, moong dal soup, and moong sprouts. All of these are light on the stomach and rich in nutrition. 

Easy ways to get plant protein in summer

Indian kitchens employ simple techniques to make protein more digestible. Soaking pulses and seeds for a few hours makes them easier to digest. Formatting dosa or idli batter improves nutrient absorption. Well-cooked pulses are light on the stomach. Spices like cumin, asafoetida, ginger, and fennel aid digestion. It's also beneficial to consume protein in multiple meals rather than consuming a large amount at one time. 

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