Why is complete protein important

Eating a combination of incomplete proteins provides the essential amino acids your body needs. Turn on MyFitnessPal desktop notifications and stay up to date on the latest health and fitness advice. Why Complete Protein Matters. Share it:. Tags healthy eating tips high protein macros nutrition tips Vegetarian. About the Author. Protein is the macronutrient in your body that builds and repairs muscle tissue. Your brain, heart, liver and muscles consist of protein.

In short, a healthy body and mind really need it. So, what makes a protein complete? It depends on whether it has all 22 amino acids. Amino acids are the basic building blocks of protein.

Our bodies naturally produce 13 amino acids, but the nine others need to be sourced elsewhere. Animal proteins are the richest food source for complete proteins, but there are also options for vegetarians and vegans. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Health Topics. Health Tools. Reviewed: October 19, Medically Reviewed. Protein is protein, right? Well, what if that protein is complete — or incomplete? Incomplete Protein Foods According to Harvard Health Publishing , all animal-based foods, including meat, dairy, and eggs , contain complete protein.

Needed for metabolism and detoxification, tissue growth, and absorption of zinc and selenium, which are vital for health. Sources: Beans, beef, dairy products, eggs, fish, garlic, liver, onions, sardines, whey protein.

Needed for tyrosine, dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline production. Integral part of the structure and function of proteins and enzymes and for other amino acids production.

Sources: Almonds, avocado, bananas, brown rice, cottage cheese, eggs, herrings, lentils, meat, nuts, pistachios, soy beans, whey proteins. Principal part of the structure of collagen and elastin in skin and connective tissue. Involved in fat metabolism and immune function. Sources: Cheese, eggs, fish, lentils, meat, milk, pork, seafood. Low in most grains.

Needed for proper nitrogen balance and for serotonin production which regulates appetite, sleep and mood. Known for its role in helping you drift off to sleep.

Sources: Bananas, beef, beans, dairy products, fish, legumes, lentils, oats, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, soy beans, uncooked rice. A three branched-chain amino acids needed for muscle growth stimulation and regeneration and energy production. Sources: Almonds, beef, chicken, chick peas, fish, lamb, lentils, lima beans, mushrooms, nuts, soy flour, whey protein.