Complete vs Incomplete Protein
The basic structure of every cell in the human body is protein. Protein is needed to make new cells, repair damaged ones, digest food, provide energy, and perform numerous other body functions. This is accomplished by the body’s ability to break down protein into amino acids. There are ten amino acids that are essential for humans. The body cannot make essential amino acids therefore it must be obtained by the diet. The and the two types of protein are:
- Complete protein
- Incomplete protein
A complete protein (or whole protein) contains all of the essential amino acids your body requires daily. Health-promoting complete protein sources include:
- Quinoa
- Amaranth
- Tofu
- Tempeh
- Edamame
- Buckwheat
- Hummus & Pita
- Pumpkin Seeds
- Peanut Butter & Whole Grain Toast
- Hemp
- Black Beans & Brown Rice
- Chia Seeds
- Ezekiel Bread
- Spirulina
- Lentils
An incomplete protein contains some, but not all, essential amino acids. Examples of health promoting incomplete protein sources include:
- Lentils
- Chickpeas
- Black Beans
- Pinto Beans
- Navy Beans
- Whole Grains
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Fruits
- Vegetables
Hemp
is low in Saturated Fat, and very low in Sodium. It is also a good source of Dietary Fiber, Calcium, and a very good source of Protein and Iron.
| 29% | 26% | 45% |
| Carbs | Fats | Protein |
Lentils
are very low in Saturated Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium. It is also a good source of Thiamin, Iron, Phosphorus and Manganese, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber and Folate.
| 68% | 3% | 29% |
| Carbs | Fats | Protein |
Black beans
are very low in Saturated Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium. It is also a good source of Dietary Fiber, Protein, Thiamin, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Copper, Manganese, and a very good source of Folate.
| 75% | 3% | 22% |
| Carbs | Fats | Protein |