Protein is a macronutrient, consisting of various aminoacid chains, essential for many of our body's functions, like:
- Hormonal balance
- Cellular function
- Immune system support
- Muscle and bone mass developement and preservation
Most people need about 0.8g of protein per kilo of body weight per day. However, this can change from one person to another depending on:
- age
- type and duration of exercise
- possible health problems
- goals
- muscle mass
For example, an athlete needs more protein than a person who does not exercise
Animal based protein sources: meat, dairy, fish, eggs
Plant based protein sources: soy products, legumes, cereals, nuts and seeds, broccoli
Careful of the fat contained in animal products!
Are the proteins different depending on the sources? Yes! Animal proteins contain all of the essential aminoacids our body nees, but plant ones do not, and that is why they are not considered complete proteins (except soy products, quiona and chia seed, which are complete protein sources).
In vegan diets it's very important to combine food groups so we can have every essential aminoacid in our meal or in our day in general.
In general, the average healthy person does not need to count the amount of protein consumed daily. However, it wouldn't hurt to up the plant based protein we consume, as it contains vitamins, metals, trace elements and fiber.