In the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, foods such as meat, eggs, beans, and nuts are often compared nutritionally based on standard serving sizes.
However, researchers from Purdue University point out in their study published in Nutrients that these foods contain different amounts of protein and essential amino acids.
Essential amino acids are nutrients that the body cannot produce on its own and that play an important role in muscle health, among other functions, according to SciTechDaily.
Trial involving adults
The study included 55 healthy adults divided into a younger group and an older group.
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During separate test meals, participants consumed either lean pork, eggs, black beans, or almonds.
Following the meals, researchers collected blood samples over a five-hour period to measure how many essential amino acids entered the bloodstream.
The researchers also examined whether age influenced the results.
A clear difference
The results showed that meals containing pork and eggs produced higher levels of essential amino acids in the blood than meals containing beans and almonds.
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There was no significant difference between the younger and older participants.
However, the researchers emphasize that the study does not demonstrate whether different protein sources lead to greater muscle growth or better long-term health outcomes.
The findings therefore suggest that two equal-sized servings of protein do not necessarily provide the body with the same nutritional benefit.
Sources: SciTechDaily and Nutrients.
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