Protein containing foods

Carbohydrates and proteins have to be balanced in our diet. Excess consumption of either one is not recommended, but they are both essential.

Breakdown of protein is more difficult and complicated than breakdown of carbohydrates or fat. As such, it requires the most amount of energy. The more protein we consume, the more energy we need for digestion.

For this reason, it is not recommended to eat different kinds of proteins during a single meal. It is enough work for the body already to process one type of protein.

Here are the most important sources of protein :

- Meats: poultry, beef, veal, lamb, wild game;

- Meat products: ham, tenderloin, chicken and turkey breast;

- Fish: tuna, salmon, cod, swordfish, catfish, carp;

- Crabs, shrimp, crayfish, polyp;

- Dairy: yoghurt, cottage cheese, cheeses;

- Eggs, soy, tofu;

- Nuts, seeds;

- Legumes: lentils, dry beans, chickpeas, peas;

- Sprouts: bean, soy and sunflower sprouts.

Only a diet that contains both plant and animal proteins has all the essential amino acids that the body requires. Therefore, to maintain proper muscle mass, we need to consume both plant and animal proteins .

If you are vegetarian, you can buy commercially available protein and amino acid supplements or consume more dairy products and eggs during every meal.

The combinations listed below provide sufficient protein to people who do not wish to eat meat:

- Grains plus legumes;

- Grains plus dairy;

- Nuts, seeds plus legumes;

- Legumes plus grain products (pasta, rice).