Animal Protein vs Plant Protein: What’s the difference?
Protein is an exceptionally important macronutrient which aids your body’s immune functions, develops and maintains cell structures and is responsible for overall growth and development. At every stage of your life, it is vital that you consume some amount of protein every day.
Protein sources are present in both plant and animal forms. The debate has shifted from animal protein being the end all, to plant-based protein sources actually being better for you. We understand that picking what is the right protein source for you can be a daunting task, which is why we are here to help!
In this article, we will discuss the difference between Animal and Plant Protein Sources and evaluate the pros and cons of each, so you can decide which source works best for you!
What Is Animal Protein?
Animal proteins are derived from animal sources and are considered as complete proteins because they contain all the necessary amino acids.
They used to be considered the highest quality of protein until the damaging effects of animal protein started gaining attention. For example, red meat which is a high protein source is also high in bad cholesterol and consuming too much of it has been linked to increasing the risk of a stroke and heart disease.
Animal Protein can be found in:
- Fish
- Eggs
- Milk, Cheese and other dairy products
- Red Meat
- Poultry
What are the benefits of Animal-Based Protein?
While high-fat animal protein is not good for you, eating low-fat sources of animal protein can help lower the risks of:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Cholesterol
- Stomach cancer
- Prostate cancer
What are the disadvantages of Animal-Based Protein?
Animal protein contains saturated fat and higher levels of cholesterol than plant based protein. Studies have shown that animal protein can increase internal inflammation in the intestine too! Apart from this, animal protein does not contain any fibre and is therefore tougher to digest when compared to plant protein.
What Is Plant Protein?
Plant protein is derived from plant-based sources of protein. Unlike animal protein, plant protein sources are not complete sources as one source does not contain a complete amino acid profile. However, a combination of plant-based sources or supplements from plant based sources can provide the same benefits as complete protein sources and are in fact free of some of the drawbacks of animal protein.
Sources of plant protein include:
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Vegetables
- Green leafy vegetables
- Legumes
- Whole grains
What are the benefits of Plant-Based Protein?
The biggest benefits of Plant-Based protein include that it has a lower calorie density when compared to animal protein, it provides a variety of nutrients, fibre and is high in antioxidants which help you enhance your overall health.
It prevents against various life-threatening diseases in the following ways:
- It provides protection against heart disease
- It reduces the risks of cancer and stroke
- It protects against type-2 diabetes
What are the disadvantages of Plant-based Protein?
Plant-based protein being incomplete proteins needs to be consumed in combination or supplementary forms to serve as a complete protein. This is a problem that is easily fixable and if you consume protein in the form of protein powder, not a problem at all, as these are fortified to form complete protein profiles.
The world is slowly understanding the benefits of plant-based proteins and switching to this healthier alternative. Protein is absolutely essential for your well being, and if you are someone who is a vegetarian or vegan know that it is more than possible to consume the right amount of protein.
Plix has come up with a super product called Plix Immunity Booster Supergreens which is a plant-based protein that provides all the benefits plant-based protein can offer in one easy to consume protein powder.
Plix’s Supergreens has a multitude of health benefits such as it gives you your right protein intake, Vitamin C, glowing skin, boosts your body’s collagen production and manages your weight.
It is antioxidant rich which helps your body combat any inflammation and infection.
It keeps you energised throughout the day and also contributes to improved brain function.
This Protein drink will help to increase your brain health.
At Plix, we say choose Plant-Protein and choose better health – and our Supergreens is an ideal choice!
