Protein Crash Course - Part 2 | Sources Of Protein

Protein Crash Course - Part 2 | Sources Of Protein

If you’ve missed the first part of this article where we talk about optimal protein consumption, timing, and distribution, jump to part 1 now.

If you have ever wondered what the best source of protein for optimal muscle growth and recovery is, then you’re at the right place. 

Today, we are delving deeper into the different sources of protein, so without further ado, let’s have a look.

Functions of Protein

Proteins are all over our bodies - they can be found in our muscle tissues, bones, and blood.

Protein is also the most satiating macronutrient, as we have already mentioned in part 1 of this series. 

When we consume protein, the body requires more time and energy to digest it, so that’s a part of the reason why we feel more satiated after one big steak with a source of complex carbs, compared to a pizza.

Here’s a brief lesson in biology - amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. There are 20 total amino acids, 9 of which are essential (think of essential as ‘the body needs it for optimal health and recovery but can’t produce it on its own’).

The other 11 are non-essential, meaning that the body can produce them on its own.

However, the essential amino acids we must derive from protein-rich foods!

Protein can be derived from 2 sources - animal or plant-based protein foods.

The main difference between them is that all nine amino acids can be found in animal protein sources. 

In comparison to plant-based protein sources, to get all nine amino acids, certain combinations of foods would have to be consumed.

After this short introduction of protein, let’s talk about the two primary sources.

Animal Sources of Protein

As mentioned above, animal protein sources have all essential amino acids and are known as “complete” proteins.

Animal source protein

Here is a list of the best animal sources of protein and the quantity of protein per 100g.

  1. Beef
    One of the juiciest meats out there if cooked right. Beef has approximately 26 grams of protein per 100g and 163 kcals.

  2. Chicken
    “The favorite” food of most bodybuilders out there. Chicken has around 22 - 27 grams of protein per 100g and 120 - 140 kcals.

  3. Fresh Salmon
    Salmon contains 20g of protein per 100g and around 170 kcals. Keep in mind that Salmon is also high in healthy fats, such as omega 3 and 6.

  4. Eggs
    One of the best sources of protein, according to experts. Eggs are one of the most digestible protein sources. They contain around 13 grams of protein per 100g (one medium egg contains 6g) and 150 kcals.

  5. Pork
    Pork is an excellent alternative to beef and chicken. It has a great protein to fats ratio and contains around 22 grams of protein per 100g and 130 kcals.

Plant-based Protein Sources

Plant-based protein sources are “incomplete” proteins because most foods don’t have all the essential amino acids. 

However, a variety of plant sources can be consumed to reach the required essential amino profile.

Plant based protein

Here is a list of plant-based protein sources: 

  1. Soy
    Soy is the only exception among plant-based sources because it has ALL the essential amino acids. Soy protein contains 12.5 grams of protein per 100g and around 140 kcals.

  2. Quinoa 
    Quinoa is a fantastic alternative to rice. Quinoa is an excellent source of complex carbs, but it also has a good amount of protein. Quinoa contains 12 grams of protein per 100g and around 360 kcals.

  3. Lentils
    Lentils are a must in a healthy and balanced diet. They contain a high amount of fiber and a decent amount of protein. Lentils have around 9 grams of protein per 100g and 100 kcals.

  4. Beans
    Similar to lentils, beans are high in fiber, protein, and carbs. Beans contain 6.6 grams of protein per 100g and 91 kcals.

  5. Almonds
    Almonds are incredibly high in protein. However, they contain a lot of healthy fats as well. 21g of protein per 100 grams and 643 kcals can be found in almonds.

  6. Sesame seeds
    Sesame seeds are tiny, oil-rich seeds with many benefits. They contain a lot of fiber and have 21.2 grams of protein per and 584 kcals per 100g.

Takeaway message

Animal sources of protein contain all essential amino acids and are known as “complete” proteins.

Plant-based protein sources may not have all the essential amino acids, but combining them would bring identical results to your life.

If you liked this article series, share it with a friend who might find the information helpful!

By Lewis Ashby C.S.C.S.

Blog Articles