Proteins are a very important part of your diet.  Proteins are the basic building material of the human body.  They are made up of amino acids, and help build muscles, blood, skin, hair, nails and internal organs.  There are 20 amino acids that are required for growth by the human body and all but eight can be produced in an adult body.   These eight essential amino acids are found mostly in meats. However, there are non-meat sources that contain all eight essential amino acids.  Quinoa (an ancient South American grain) is a great example of a plant source that provides the eight essential amino acids.

Most health industry experts agree that protein intake should be limited to 10-15% of your total daily caloric intake.  And since the average American diet contains ample quantities (volume) of protein, I like to focus more on protein quality.  Foods that contain all of the essential amino acids are called complete proteins.  These foods include beef, chicken, fish, eggs, milk and just about anything else derived from animal sources. But beware of protein sources that are high in saturated (bad) fat.  You can do this by moderating your intake of fatty meats, animal skin and organ meats. Although high in protein, these sources can be high in "bad" fat and "bad" cholesterol.  Beans and whole grains are a great supplement or alternative to animal protein.   These foods generally contain fiber, healthy fat and other important nutrients without the cholesterol and saturated fats found in animal products.  A simple internet search will expand your knowledge and reveal the exact protein and nutritional contents of the foods you eat.

The old phrase "you are what you eat" sums it up nicely.  Always remember that quality input (food) makes a quality product (body)........dp