Good Protein vs. Bad Protein: Choose the right protein for overall health

Whether you want to get rock hard abs, a lean body, or simply get fit, it doesn’t happen overnight. In addition, it requires a good exercise program and a healthy diet that includes protein. Protein has been an essential part of every nutrition discussion out there! As more and more people focus on healthy eating and fitness, they calculate their protein intake on a daily basis. But what about the quality of the protein you consume? Believe it or not – there is good and bad protein! Let’s explore the protein landscape by exploring the difference between good protein and bad protein.

Good protein vs. bad protein

Protein is an important nutrient for the human body, which is vital for maintaining and repairing tissues as well as making enzymes, hormones and other body chemicals. It’s an integral part of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood, unlike fat and carbohydrates, explains internist Dr. Hemalatha Arora. Also, the body does not store protein, which is why it is necessary to consume it regularly in the diet. Understanding the difference between “good” and “bad” protein is important, especially in India where dietary needs change with changes 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 meats, 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 may affect your health in the long run.

Why should you choose the right protein?

Protein is believed to be the building block of the body that helps you maintain overall health. Therefore, choosing the right protein is vital to maintaining health and preventing chronic diseases. Choosing good proteins that are low in saturated fat and cholesterol can help manage and prevent diseases like heart disease, diabetes and obesity that are common in India these days.

This expert warns that people with concomitant diseases such as kidney disease, lactose intolerance or pregnant or lactating women should be more careful in choosing the right type of protein. Additionally, people who have limited access to the type of protein they can consume each day should be more careful about protein quality.

Also read: 7 protein-rich foods that you should include in your diet

Does consuming bad protein have side effects?

There is a reason why they are called “bad” proteins. They are highly processed or high in saturated fat, which can be harmful to your health and increase your risk of heart disease, kidney problems, and other health problems. Therefore, avoid processed and fried foods such as some types of sausage, bacon and fried snacks. All of these will be very unhealthy for you because they contain preservatives and high levels of salt. Dr. Arora recommends eating good proteins, including lentils, beans, cheese, yogurt, lean meat and fish, eggs, and nuts.