Health specialists classify protein as a macronutrient, along with carbohydrates and fat. The term refers to foods your body needs in relatively large quantities to stay healthy and function well. Protein contributes to biological processes such as growth and metabolism. Although many people consider eating meat and animal products the best way to include adequate protein in your diet, other foods provide the nutrient, as well.
Protein Sources
Good sources of protein besides foods derived from animals range from grains like rice to seeds, nuts, legumes and beans. Products made from soybeans, such as tempeh and tofu, have a considerable amount of protein, and certain fruits and vegetables contain smaller quantities of the nutrient, too. Sources of protein in the animal group include meat such as beef and pork. Other animal-based foods that supply substantial protein include poultry like chicken and turkey, seafood such as fish and dairy products like eggs and milk.
Features of Protein
Protein exists in every cell, organ and piece of tissue in the human body. All of the fluids in your body contain protein also, with the exception of urine and digestive fluids called bile. Your body constantly breaks down protein into amino acids, which help to digest food and create new protein. Your survival depends on consuming adequate protein due to the numerous physiological activities the nutrient facilitates. These essential processes include producing enzymes and hormones, protecting muscle tissue and your immune system, repairing tissue and supplying energy.
Types of Protein
Two main types of protein exist, and their classification depends on the source of the nutrient. Protein derived from animals are "complete proteins," and protein derived from sources other than animals are "incomplete proteins." Complete proteins supply all of the amino acids your body requires but cannot produce itself. Medical professionals call such amino acids -- which must come from food -- "essential amino acids." In contrast, incomplete proteins only supply some of the essential amino acids.
Dietary Considerations
Eating a variety of non-animal proteins can help you consume a sufficient amount of the nutrient if you prefer to avoid or limit meat. For instance, incomplete proteins such as rice and beans complement each other. Rice contains larger quantities of some essential amino acids than beans, yet beans contain more of the essential amino acids lacking in rice. Consuming both foods regularly can eventually provide as much or all of the essential amino acids as you would get from meat alone. Additionally, individuals who prefer animal products as their main source of protein should monitor their food choices. Emphasizing fish, poultry, lean cuts of meat and reduced-fat dairy selections can decrease your chances of becoming overweight and developing health problems associated with harmful high-fat diets.
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