Whether you want rock-hard abs, a slim body or just to be fit, it doesn’t happen overnight. In addition, a good exercise routine and a healthy diet containing proteins are necessary. Protein has been an essential part of every nutrition-related debate out there! As more people turn to healthy eating and exercise, they keep track of how much protein they consume daily. But what about the quality of the proteins you consume? Believe it or not: good and bad proteins exist! Let’s explore the protein landscape as we unravel the difference between good proteins and bad proteins.
Good proteins versus bad proteins
Protein is an important nutrient for the human body, vital for the maintenance and repair of tissues, as well as for making enzymes, hormones and other body chemicals. It is an integral part of the bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood, and unlike fat and carbohydrates, explains internal medicine specialist Dr. Hemalata Arora. In addition, the body does not store proteins, so it is essential to consume them regularly in your diet. It is important to understand the difference between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ proteins, especially in India where nutritional needs are changing due to the change in topography, climatic conditions and population demographics.
Also read: Protein: why and how to include this nutrient in your diet
“Good proteins are rich in essential amino acids and are easily digested and absorbed by the body. Lean meat, poultry, fish, dairy, legumes and nuts are good sources of ‘good’ protein. On the other hand, ‘bad’ proteins are processed meats and other protein sources that may be high in saturated fat and additives, which can impact your health in the long run,” explains Dr. Arora.
Why should you choose the right protein?
It is believed that proteins are the building block of the body, which helps you maintain overall health. So it is essential to choose the right proteins to maintain good health and prevent chronic diseases. Choosing good proteins that are low in saturated fats and cholesterol can help manage and prevent conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and obesity, which are becoming increasingly common in India today.
The expert warns that people with comorbidities such as kidney disease, lactose intolerance or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should be more careful when choosing the right type of protein. Additionally, people who have limited access to the type of protein they can consume every day need to be more aware of the quality of the protein.
Also read: 7 High Protein Foods to Include in Your Diet
Select topics you are interested in and let us customize your feed.
PERSONALIZE NOW
Are There Side Effects of Consuming Bad Protein?
There’s a reason they’ve been given the title of “bad” proteins. They are highly processed or high in saturated fat, which can be harmful to your health, increasing your risk of heart disease, kidney problems and other health problems. So avoid foods that have been processed and fried, such as some types of sausage, bacon and fried snacks. These are all extremely unhealthy for you as they contain preservatives and high salt content. Dr. Arora recommends eating good proteins including dal, pulses, paneer, yogurt, lean meat and fish, eggs and nuts.