Difference between Animal Protein and Plant Protein
By Theydiffer - December 17, 2015

Plant proteins, as the name clearly suggests, are those provided by vegetables. However, animal proteins are consumed from animal meat. The foremost difference between the two kinds of proteins is in their amino acid profiles. These profiles are responsible for managing the rate of putting absorbed amino acids into the body. There are various other differences that we will discuss in the article below.

Definitions

Animal proteins are very similar to human proteins and therefore are used rapidly in comparison to plants proteins. Nevertheless, this should not be confused with the efficient use of animal proteins. It only means that the substrate amino acids provided by animal protein can be easily obtained for protein synthesizing reactions. With the help of these reactions, they are able to operate to their full potential.

Various kinds of animal proteins like chicken, seafood and some dairy products carry the necessary amino acids that humans require to create body proteins. Animal proteins mostly contain just a few carbs, thereby letting you consume the major part of your calories from proteins. Some animal based food, including egg yolks and red meat, contain high amounts of heme iron and zinc. These components are rapidly absorbed by the human body as compared to iron provided by plant-based foods.

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Plant proteins have one or more amino acids in limited amounts. When this comparatively reduced amount of amino acid is restored in the plant protein, it, then, reports a response rate corresponding to that offered by an animal protein.

Foods like whole grains, soy, nuts, and legumes ensure a lower amount of unhealthy saturated fat and cholesterol in your body. Plant proteins are usually not considered as complete proteins, but different plant-based food consumption in a day can help you get the required amino acids.

Animal Protein vs Plant Protein

What’s the difference between animal protein and plant protein? Animal proteins contain bad cholesterol and unhealthy fat, which are comparatively reduced in plant proteins. This is why animal proteins are likely to easily instigate diseases such as various heart ailments in a person, though these are complete proteins.

Plant proteins are rich in vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin E, minerals like magnesium and calcium, and dietary fiber. On the other hand, animal proteins have more amino acids – almost all of them.

Experts suggest that vegetarians should consume different vegetables to get complete proteins. Also, non-vegetarians should take a diet balanced between animal protein and plant protein.

Comparison Chart

Animal ProteinPlant Protein
Animal protein contains high amount of cholesterol and fat.The level of fat and cholesterol is comparatively less in plant proteins.
Animal proteins, as compared to plant proteins, contain fewer amounts of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants.Plant proteins contain more fiber, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants.
Animal protein is considered a complete protein.Plant proteins are believed to be incomplete.