Animal proteins have some great nutrition benefits just as plant-based proteins do.
Animal proteins are proteins that are from an animal — meat, organ meats, collagen, whey/casein/collagen protein powders, eggs, dairy, fish, cheese, etc.
Health Benefits of Animal-Based Protein:
Just as plant-based proteins are abundant or richer sources of certain nutrients, animal proteins also are rich in certain important nutrients and contain all essential amino acids. Animal-based protein sources are particularly rich in vitamin B12, zinc, omega 3 and iron.
Essential amino acids are the amino acids we are unable to synthesize on our own, and therefore need to receive them from our diet.
Examples of Animal-Based Protein:
Animal protein sources include the variations of beef, poultry, fish, dairy and pork. Please read our thoughts on factory farming, sourcing seafood to learn more about how to source animal proteins.
How To Use:
Animal proteins can be used in salads, grain bowls, sandwiches, and just about any other recipe you can picture! They’re exceptionally versatile and easy to incorporate.
Recipes:
Poached Egg Plate With Castelvetrano Olive Oil
NS Recommends:
If you’re looking to consume animal proteins, be conscious of the source, how the animal was raised, treated, and the quality of the protein. Paying attention to how you’re cooking your food matters too, read our guide for healthy cooking methods.
When shopping, stick to the animal proteins labeled with: organic, 100% grass-fed, wild-caught, sustainable, humanely raised. If you’re purchasing from the butcher counter, ask them about the sourcing and share specifics of what you’re looking for so you get the best quality.
