High Protein Diet

Answer 1

Various proteins are needed by the body in order to build firmness and structure. Dividing cells build new membrane walls using proteins, the tendons, eyeballs, fingernails and joint tissues in the limbs are made from protein, and the protective linings in the gut area are built with proteins. If the body senses an abnormally low amount of protein intake, it may begin to store fat in an effort to keep a reserve of nutrients. People wanting to lose weight often resort to a high protein diet.

Complete And Complementary Proteins

Plants provide the building blocks for complete proteins, which animals must have in order to survive. Animals that eat plants can combine what are known as complementary or incomplete proteins to form complete proteins. Animal tissue such as beef, pork and poultry contains complete proteins, but the consumption of these foods is not necessary in order to fulfill the protein intake requirements for humans.

Certain plants may contain several incomplete proteins which, when combined with the proteins of another vegetable or fruit can be used by the body to form complete proteins. This is seen in the culinary traits of many cultures around the globe. In Asia people have eaten squash and soybeans, or tofu for centuries. Long ago these people became aware that combining the two foods resulted in better health. In South America societies have consumed beans and rice together in meals for hundreds of years. It's not a coincidence. These two foods happen to have high levels of incomplete proteins which, when consumed together will allow the body to form complete proteins needed by the body's cells.

Choosing High Protein Foods

Animal flesh contains high levels of complete proteins but also fats and stored toxins. Some people avoid meats for religious reasons, because they are wary of genetically enhanced animal products or because they have trouble digesting this food. Grains such as wheat and oats have a significant amount of protein, especially whole grain wheat products where the bran is used as part of the flour. Wheat provides the most usable protein of any grain, especially in products containing unbleached flour and the bran. A diet consisting of generous servings of bread, pasta, cereals and other grains such as oats and barley is an excellent way to receive the required amount of protein on a daily basis. And combining legumes with rice or soybeans with squash accomplishes the same thing while also contributing to the intake of dietary fiber.