Animal protein provides essential amino acids. While protein can be sourced from plant-based foods, plants lack one amino acid, which the body needs. Moreover, the digestive system has an easier time breaking down animal proteins. It is also a fact that the highest quality protein is sourced from animal products. If you have switched to a plant-based diet and are experiencing digestive issues, you may want to consider reintroducing animal protein back into your diet. With moderation, you can give your body what it needs in terms of protein without the negative effects and reduce the strain on your digestive system.
Here we have the 5 most common sources of protein that can aid digestive health.
1. White Meat Poultry
Chicken and turkey breasts are highly accessible sources of animal protein. They also contain other nutrients such as iron, zinc, iodine, and vitamin B12. It would be best to avoid processed white meat poultry and always choose lean cuts.
2. Fatty Fish
Salmon, tuna, sardines, and herring are all excellent sources of protein. Fatty fish also contain omega-3 fatty acids which are important in healthy bowel function. Whether farm-raised or wild-caught, fatty fish is an excellent source of protein and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids.
3. Pork
Pork is rich in protein, and it is much easier to trim fat from this type of meat. If eaten in moderation, and provided it is clean and well-cooked, pork can provide you with essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, thiamin, niacin, potassium, selenium, vitamins B6 and B12, and zinc.
4. Beef
Red meat, especially lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin, is another nutrition powerhouse and is easily digested by the body. Other than protein, beef contains iron, zinc, niacin, choline, and vitamin B12. A 3-ounce portion of lean-cut red meat provides you with up to half of your daily protein needs. In addition to steaks, ground beef is also healthy and easy to digest.
5. Eggs
Eggs are a part of a balanced diet. If eaten regularly and in moderation, eggs contribute to a healthy gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Eggs help bind up bowel movements and are usually recommended to patients with diarrhea. They are rich in high-quality protein, low in carbohydrates, and jam-packed with nutrients such as iron, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin A, D, E, and carotenoids.
GI Doctor in Austin, TX
Digestive issues can prevent your body from getting what it needs to function well. If you are experiencing digestive issues and are having difficulty putting together a healthy diet that provides your body with all the vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients it needs, the board-certified gastrointestinal doctors at Austin Gastroenterology can help. We not only treat a wide range of gastrointestinal issues but can also design a customized plan for you to promote better GI health.
To schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified GI doctors, call our GI clinic nearest you or use our convenient appointment request form. We look forward to providing for all your digestive health needs!
