Becoming Plant Powered

Registered dietitians Brenda Davis and Vesanto Melina join agrologist Cory Davis for a deep dive into the politics and fallacies surrounding plant-based protein..

Vesanto’s recent CBC Interview on Plant Powered Protein

A Word About The Authors

Brenda and Vesanto are the co-authors of award winning books that are classics on plant-based nutrition, and now in 13 languages.

BRENDA DAVIS, RD, is one of the world’s leading plant-based pioneers, and has been referred to by VegNews as the “godmother” of vegan dietitians. Her work focuses on ensuring that everyone who wishes to be plant-based can succeed brilliantly.

VESANTO MELINA, MS, RD, is a popular speaker at health conferences worldwide and the lead
author of the position paper on vegetarian diets for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

CORY DAVIS, MBA, P.Ag, has worked in natural resource management and is an advocate for
animal welfare and environmental stewardship. He has a uniquely well-informed perspective
on the effects of sustainable practices on human health and well-being.

Praise from the Experts for Plant-Powered Protein!

Michael Greger, MD
author of How Not to Die and founder of NutritionFacts.org
The dietitian duo is back! Brenda Davis and Vesanto Melina are my go-to sources for everything dietetic. I am excited they are teaming up once again to address the perennial questions about plant protein and its importance throughout every stage of the life cycle.
Virginia Messina, MPH, RD
author of Vegan for Life and The Dietitian’s Guide to Vegetarian Diets
Plant Powered Protein offers simple and delicious ways to meet protein needs from plant foods while exploring all the reasons why plant protein is always the best choice. With careful attention to the research, the authors share a message about meeting protein needs that is both science-based and reassuring. This is essential reading for anyone looking to move toward a plant-based diet.
Julieanna Hever, MS, RD, CPT
author of The Choose You Now Diet and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Plant-based Nutrition
The persistent pursuit of protein is one of the leading problems with nutrition and health today. Questions about plant protein are relentless, as the media tends to perpetuate long disproved myths. Thankfully, Brenda Davis, Vesanto Melina, and Cory Davis have published an extraordinary evidence-based book that puts to rest any concerns. Included are comprehensive recommendations for every stage of life as well as specific tips for athletes. Plus, the recipes look absolutely magnificent! Every person who is curious about nutrition and health, regardless of the type of diet they prefer should read this book.
Neal D. Barnard, MD, FACC
President, Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine
This book sets the record straight on the dietary issue that is on so many people’s minds. It explains what protein is, where to get it, and how to use that knowledge to achieve the best of health. It is eye-opening, authoritative, and practical.
John Robbins
author Diet for a New America and co-founder of The Food Revolution Network
Plant-Powered Protein is stunningly comprehensive, totally up-to-date, and a terrific gift to our world. If you welcome guidance about protein on a plant-based diet, this is THE resource you need! I can’t recommend it highly enough.
Scott Stoll, MD
co-founder of The Plantrician Project, author, and former Olympic bobsledder
A scientific home run! This book is the most comprehensive evidence-based answer to the age-old question Where do I get my protein? It is a must read for everyone striving to improve the quality of their diet, enhance their well-being, and discover the pathway to vibrant health.
Dr. Matthew Nagra, ND
https://drmatthewnagra.com/
Brenda, Vesanto, and Cory do an excellent job tackling arguably the most common concern surrounding plant-based diets: protein. They explain the science behind plant protein and its ability to support muscle and strength performance in a way that’s easy to understand while also providing practical information that readers can implement in their own lives..
 Co-founder of Ashland Creek Press and editor of Writing for Animals

“This book begins with an in-depth debunking of common protein myths, such as the myth that animal protein contains essential amino acids that are missing from plant foods. Each chapter includes a quiz that introduces common conceptions and misconceptions.
Extremely valuable are pages upon pages of detailed nutritional breakdowns of grains, vegetables, fruits and even animal products — so you can see for yourself that tofu holds it own quite nicely against beef (with none of the cholesterol). Another myth — tofu won’t cause feminization of males; sorry guys, you can’t use that excuse.
The book will tell you what plants are the best sources of protein and other nutrients. There are also chapters devoted to life’s many stages — protein and pregnancy, infants, children and teens, and elders. If you’re a hard-core athlete, you’ll find that, yes, you can build up your muscles plenty.” well eating just plants.”
See more…

The Case for Plant-Based Protein

The top question people have when considering a plant-based diet is:
Will I get enough protein?
The answer is a resounding YES.

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 also is often superior to it!
The roles of macronutrients and micronutrients and which essential amino acids found in protein promote healthy growth are clearly explained. The  recommended daily allowance (RDA) for protein for specific age brackets, as well as for athletes and pregnant women, is identified, along with suggestions for how to obtain all the vital nutrients each group requires.
Detailed information is presented regarding two key advantages unique to plant-based protein: a lighter carbon footprint and the ability to reduce the risk of chronic diseases thanks to an abundance of healthful compounds.
From easy-to-understand nutritional information to pantry suggestions, cooking tips, and mouthwatering recipes, this book contains everything necessary to adopt a plant-based diet and be assured that it’s a wholesome, nourishing, and protein-abundant choice.

Reasons to buy

1. “WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR PROTEIN?”
Those on plant-based diets are repeatedly asked this question. This book provides definitive answers to that and to other protein-related questions. It also addresses concerns that might arise at various stages of life, from pregnancy, infancy, childhood, adulthood, the senior years, and for athletes.

2. WE MAKE THE SCIENCE UNDERSTANDABLE
You can enjoy a deep dive into the fascinating science of amino acids and protein, with language, tables, charts and stories. 

3. PLANT POWERED PROTEIN COVERS THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF OUR FOOD
CHOICES.
We cover the links between food choices, sustainability and climate change; the politics of
protein; international trends in protein consumption and food policy; and disease risk
associated with different protein sources–all based on peer reviewed science.

4. EXCEPTIONAL, PRACTICAL RESOURCES FOR YOU!
This book provides a food guide, practical pointers on diet design, and an incredible array of triple-tested, delicious, protein-packed recipes.

Download a Free Sample

Not sold yet? Download the preview sample PDF  complete with cover artwork, table of contents, and several sample pages.

Sample recipes

Click on image to see a pdf of the recipe