Question

Amanda is a 23-year-old nursing student who is very concerned about environmental pollution and believes in preserving nature and protecting wildlife. Therefore, Amanda has been a vegan for the past year. Her diet includes a variety of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, tofu, and soy milk. She takes no supplements (including no vitamin/mineral supplements); she does not drink alcoholic beverages or smoke. Amanda states that she would like to exercise but she "doesn't have the time". She spends most of her time attending class, studying, and participating in student government meetings.

Amanda is 5’5” and weighs 125 pounds. She states that lately she has noticed a feeling of fatigue when she climbs stairs. Amanda’s health history reveals no prior medical conditions or surgeries. You noted no abnormal physical findings during your examination.

Explain the concept of "complementary proteins". Provide at least 3 sentences.Include a reference.  

provide an example of two specific "complementary protein" foods that Amanda might include in her diet.

Do complementary proteins need to be consumed at the same time (e.g. in the same meal) to be beneficial? Why or why not? Include a reference.

Answer 1

1. Complementary proteins are the incomplete protein sources that when eaten in combination with other food will compensate each others lack of amino acids. For example lentils or legumes with grains,nuts/ seeds or dairy ...

2. As Amanda already consumes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, tofu, and soya milk we can know that she doesnot consume any nuts and seeds. And hence she can consume almonds as snacks and peanut snacks so that it will add as complementary protein which will be helpful to meet her amino acids.

3. Complementary proteins need to be consumed at the same time of the meal or during the same day in order to meet the nutritional needs for the day.