New research from Purdue University suggests that animal-based proteins are more effective in providing essential amino acids (EAA) when compared to plant-based proteins.
The study’s findings could have implications for dietary recommendations, particularly those promoted by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs).
A Closer Look at Protein Quality
The quality of protein in a food is determined by its EAA content, which is crucial for muscle and whole-body protein building.
According to the DGAs, one ounce-equivalent (oz-eq) of protein from various sources, like meat, eggs, beans, and nuts, are considered ‘equivalent’ in nutritional content.
However, Dr. Wayne Campbell, the study’s primary investigator, questioned this equivalence, pointing out that proteins from different sources differ in nutrient and energy content.
The Study Design
The study included 30 young adults and 25 older adults. Participants consumed meals containing two oz-eq of either animal-based protein foods (lean pork loin, scrambled eggs) or plant-based protein foods (black beans, sliced almonds).
Blood samples were taken at various intervals to determine EAA bioavailability, as well as blood sugar and insulin levels.
Key Findings
Animal-based proteins resulted in greater EAA bioavailability than plant-based proteins in both young and older adults.
No significant differences in EAA bioavailability were found between young and older adults.
Lean pork was found to have greater EAA bioavailability compared to eggs, while no differences were noted between black beans and almonds.
Limitations and Further Research
The study does acknowledge limitations, including the portion sizes used in the trials and the lack of direct measures of changes in muscle protein synthesis.
More research is needed to understand the impact of different protein sources on muscle and whole-body health across the lifespan.
Implications for Public Health Nutrition Guidelines
The findings could impact how protein sources are classified in future DGAs and how nutritional guidance is provided.
Although plant-based foods are generally considered beneficial for health, this study suggests that animal-based proteins offer a more efficient way of obtaining essential amino acids.
“While the recommendation to consume more plant-based foods remains important for various health reasons, these findings add nuance by highlighting the role of high-quality, nutrient-dense animal-based proteins in a balanced diet,” explains Dr. Campbell.
The study, published in the journal “Nutrients,” could serve as an important resource for revising dietary guidelines and public health recommendations.
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The study was published in Nutrients.
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