Protein 101

     Protein is an essential macronutrient found in a variety of food sources. It is necessary for the growth, repair, and maintenance of the body's tissues and organs. Protein is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of the body's cells. Eating a balanced diet that includes adequate amounts of protein is important for optimal health and physical performance.  Compared to carbohydrates,  protein takes longer to digest, therefore keeps you satiated longer.

Protein foods

Some food sources of dietary protein include:

• lean meats – beef, lamb, veal, pork, kangaroo

• poultry – chicken, turkey, duck, emu, goose, bush birds

• fish and seafood – fish, prawns, crab, lobster, mussels, oysters, scallops, clams

• eggs

• dairy products – milk, yoghurt (especially Greek yoghurt), cheese (especially cottage cheese)

• nuts (including nut pastes) and seeds – almonds, pine nuts, walnuts, macadamias, hazelnuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds

• legumes and beans – all beans, lentils, chickpeas, split peas, tofu.

Some grain and cereal-based products are also sources of protein, but are generally not as high in protein as meat and meat-alternative products.​

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