A dietary protein divided into two categories
Among foods rich in protein, we distinguish between animal and plant proteins. Their main difference is in their source. As their names suggest: animal proteins come from animal products like meat, fish, eggs and dairy; As for plant proteins, they are found in legumes, cereals, seeds and oilseeds.
Distinguishing complete proteins from complement proteins
Amino acids
Whatever they are, proteins provide essential amino acids. In fact, among the twenty or so essential molecules present in food proteins, nine cannot be produced by the body. It is therefore important to use food to supplement this intake, without which the body could not function normally (support for muscle growth, recovery after exercise, maintenance of the main components of skin cells, muscles, hair, nails, memory, nervous system).
Animal protein, a complete protein
Nutritionally, animal proteins are considered complete protein sources, meaning they contain all the amino acids essential for the proper functioning of the body.
Plant protein, a complementary protein
As for plant proteins, the situation changes, since the nutritional value of plant proteins is not comparable to that of animal proteins. For good reason, they are generally “incomplete” in amino acids. This is why they are part of a varied diet composed of different sources of plant proteins. As part of a vegetarian diet, it is important to combine cereals, dried fruits, oilseeds and legumes during the day, and thus obtain all the amino acids necessary for the body.
