Q & A (Health--Meat Protein vs. Vegetable Protein)

Hello!
I have been finishing up educational certifications and took a few weeks away from the blog, but I am back with a bunch of topics in queue.
There are always more natural health questions than others...this may narrow the focus of the blog over time. I'll keep you posted (seriously, that was an unintended pun).
Thanks for reading; it's exciting to see the increasing page views!
~~*Sunday


This week's question is from Paul M. in Riverside, RI.

Is meat protein a better (or necessary) choice over vegetable protein especially in regards to IP (intractable pain) patients?

From,
Paul M., Riverside, RI

This question comes up often for vegetarians and vegans. I’ll answer it the same way, as it really is a matter of packaging…read on to learn what I mean.

Naysayers argue that vegetables (exclusively) do not provide adequate protein for maintaining health and vitality. No matter the proof, no matter the forum, there will continue to be debate because many people like the taste of animal protein, and still more just don’t want to be told “No!” Ultimately, we all decide whether to eat meat based on lifestyle and concerns (be they health, illness, compassion, or environment).
Know why you make the choice…it is a choice.

The perspective of science tells us that animal protein is loaded with the amino acids we need to form proteins in our bodies, which are necessary for all body processes to keep us alive, nourished, healing, and vital. All true. Animal protein is also rife with saturated fats and zero fiber. It contains a small amount of other nutrients such as iron, but no useable enzymes, unless you eat it raw. Basically, a delivery of high amounts of amino acids and saturated fats with no enzymes to break it down or fiber to carry it away.

Science also tells us that vegetables (some more than others—beans, lentils, etc.) have protein, but without the saturated fat. All veggies have vitamins and minerals (some more plentiful and varied than others—kale, broccoli, etc.), are loaded with enzymes, and have enough fiber to carry away its waste and some hitchhikers, too! Vegetables (and fruits) also have something animal protein does not, water. Water eaten from the plant kingdom not only hydrates, it carries with it absorbable nutrients which enter the bloodstream quickly, it cleanses and detoxifies the tissues and organs, and it is bursting with enzymes.

IP (intractable pain)* patients, like anyone else, need maximum nutrition for their caloric buck. IP patients (as other types of patients) must take medications, specifically pain medications (analgesics), to control their severe discomfort (enough) to function each day.

Cases where opioids are being used for IP the protein question is germane. If protein is necessary for the effective use of the drug in pain management, should animal protein be considered superior to vegetable protein? This is what some believe.

Animal protein has a greater amount of amino acids per bite, but the quality of the packaging should matter. Animal protein promotes inflammation in the body—especially in large amounts or as the largest protein source. Inflammatory response to foods leads to degenerative diseases. Opioids can cause inflammation, as well. Inflammation is the body’s natural, protective response to injury; it protects the affected site. In fact, the inflammation is what causes the pain, which alerts you to the problem.

Vegetables will provide the amino acids needed, but a greater amount of vegetation, as well as a varied amount, will need to be consumed to provide the same amino acids necessary (or equal to, in grams) as animal sources. Be not discouraged…those not wishing to eat flesh! Supplements are available to support the non-meat eater with his/her amino acid needs. An amino acid complex should do the deed in conjunction with a balanced diet.

Armed with the information, the choice is yours to decide. It is also important to note that the amount of protein needed in the diet is not as much as one would think. High animal-protein diets are hard on the organs and can be harmful to your health. The average** adult needs about (women—46 grams) and (men—56 grams) per day. Your doctor may tell you an increase of protein is needed in the diet (for IP); amino acids are necessary for every function in the body and pain control is not least among them. Speak with your doctor about healthy ways to increase protein and reduce your pain, too.

*IP (intractable pain) is defined as pain that after medical intervention cannot be abated, cannot be cured; no treatment exists or can be found. IP is not pain from a terminal disease or the progression of a disease; though, IP may result in death. IP is not defined as chronic pain; it is disabling, constant, severe, and causes other havoc on other body systems (heart rate, blood pressure, hormones, and neurologic pain). Uncontrolled, it can cause dementia, muscle wasting, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis, as examples.
  Chronic Pain is defined as intermittent or persistent but does not disable a person for more than a few days at a time.

**Pregnant and nursing mothers require increased protein (as well as other nutrients), as do athletes. 

    
    Always consult your physician when increasing or restricting dietary intake.