protein benefits
Proteins. Essential for Health.
Animal proteins contain all the essential amino acids, or building blocks, the body needs to stay healthy. Plant proteins such as grains, legumes, nuts and seeds are incomplete proteins, in that they do not provide sufficient amounts of essential amino acids.
The meat food group has the greatest percentage (92%) of foods with high “nutrient quality index” scores, compared to all other protein sources.
Evidence suggests protein helps prevent many chronic diseases, including type-2 diabetes and osteoporosis.
Protein prevents loss of muscle mass and strength.
Animal protein aids in weight management. Research has shown that moderately increasing protein intake can be an effective and practical way to manage weight. Animal protein was shown to have a greater positive effect on weight loss than plant protein.
Protein increases satiety (the feeling of being satisfied) more than carbohydrates or fats. Animal protein makes you feel full longer than plant protein.
Lean meat, as a source of high-quality protein, can be a calorie-saver. One three-ounce serving of lean beef provides the same amount of protein (25 grams) as 11/2 cups of beans, in less than half the calories (about 180 vs. 374 calories in beans).
Heme iron (found in meat) is absorbed more readily than non-heme iron (found in plant-based foods).
Magnesium, found in animal protein, is important for the normal function of many enzymes (catalysts for the body's chemical reactors), glucose and muscle action.
Animal protein delivers 20 percent of a person’s required phosphorous daily intake, which strengthens bones and generates energy in cells.
Meat contains potassium, a mineral that helps maintain normal blood pressure.
Zinc, found in animal protein, is key for energy metabolism and the immune system.
Thiamin helps the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Animal protein is one of the best sources of thiamin.
Animal proteins include riboflavin, this plays a role in the release of energy from foods.
Niacin is involved in the metabolism of sugars and fatty acids, animal proteins can deliver 37 percent of a person’s daily requirements.
Vitamin B12 which helps build red blood cells and metabolizes carbohydrates and fats, is also found in animal proteins.
Six of the most common cuts of pork have, on average, 15% less fat and 27% less saturated fat than they did 15 years ago.
Information compiled, with permission, from the National Pork Board’s website
The Other White Meat and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Board and National Cattleman’s Beef Association’s website,
Beef, It’s What’s For Dinner.