Protein is a substance made up of chains of building blocks called amino acids. It helps in the growth and maintenance of bones, cells and tissues such as muscles. Its duties include carrying oxygen in the blood, boosting immunity to fight diseases, and maintaining the body’s energy levels. One can find protein in almost all parts of the body, such as hair, skin, bones and muscles. Sometimes the body may lack the required amount of protein. Then, it is necessary to aid the body with either plant protein or animal protein.
Why is Protein a Necessary Component?
Protein is essential for the healthy functioning of the body, and the lack of it can lead to health issues. Inadequate amount of protein in the body causes health risks. It can cause hair and nail problems, oedema, fatty liver, loss of muscles, increased bone fracture risk, and infections.
Animal Protein V/S Plant Protein
Animal foods such as fish, meat, eggs, and dairy contain animal-based protein. Plant sources such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, etc. contain plant-based nutrients. Though the former meets the body’s protein requirements, it has several adverse effects on health. Due to this reason, the demand for plant-based proteins is increasing on a larger scale.
Benefits of Plant-Based Proteins
Plant-based protein is gaining popularity due to its increased health benefits. It is an alternative for animal protein and is entirely vegan. The major benefits of plant-based proteins are listed below.
· It is produced from plant-based food and is purely organic. It makes it ideal for vegans and vegetarians. It is also cruelty-free as it is entirely vegan and does not involve violence towards animals
· Fewer calories is a major benefit of plant-derived proteins compared to animal proteins. At the same time, it is rich in fibre and other nutrients
· It has increased health benefits. It improves the health of the heart and decreases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It also reduces the risk of cancer and other diseases and improves the overall health of a person.
· There are 20 types of amino acids. Out of these, the body itself synthesises 11 and food sources give us the remaining 9. Plant-derived proteins such as soy, buckwheat, and hemp consist of the nine vital amino acids required for the body’s proper functioning.
· The fewer amount of calories present in it helps one in losing weight. It is also rich in nutrients. In comparison to the animal counterparts, plant-based proteins do not contain fats and carbs in it
· Consuming plant-based protein can increase life expectancy and reduce the chances of age-related diseases
· Animal-based protein contains harmful chemicals and bacteria. Consuming it could disrupt the health of people. Since plant proteins are organic and vegan, it is the safest type of protein. It is free from artificial sweeteners as well, which reduces the risk of diabetes. It also helps one keep a healthy gut.
Conclusion
Plant-based proteins have a large number of health benefits when compared to their animal-based counterparts. It provides adequate protein requirements for the body and reduces the risk of many diseases. Though vegans and vegetarians endorse plant-based proteins the most, it also benefits non-vegetarians due to its increased health advantages.