Difference between plant protein and animal protein

Deesha Bondre | Oct 30, 2019, 15:51 IST
There is a reason proteins are often touted as the building blocks of our body. They are the most important component in our body and present in every cell – building up the bones, muscles, cartilages, skin and blood. 20% of our body is made up the protein and hence they are an absolute necessity to maintain the daily intake of protein every day. Proteins are also essential when one is trying to lose excess weight or gain muscles.
They take longer to break down and even keeps one feeling full for a long time, preventing a person from eating unhealthy food. However, the latest debate revolving around protein and healthy eating are which one is better – animal protein or animal protein? Let’s find out.
When it comes to amino acids, there are 20 different kinds. All of them are broken down to singular amino acids and then recombine them to perform different functions. Between plant or animal-based proteins – there isn’t much difference when it comes to amino acids.
Aside from high protein content, animal-based foods are also packed with Vitamin B12, which are absent in plant-based food items.
But on the other hand, plant-based food items contain phytonutrients and some antioxidants, which are absent in animal-based products. Animal products also contain saturated fat and higher levels of cholesterol than sources of plant protein.
People trying to build muscle should consume the optimum amount of protein. This helps to repair and build up the muscles after a rigorous workout session.
Non-vegetarians should consume the right combination of both plant and animal-based food products. This will provide your body with all kinds of amino acids. Consume too much-processed meat can be harmful to your health.
If you are a vegetarian then try to include different varieties of vegetables and fruits.
Like fats and carbs, our body does not store excessive protein in the body. So it is important to consume protein in the right amount every day. According to the Institute of Medicine, adults need to consume about 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily.


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