STEADFAST TRAINING GLOSSARY
Definition
A complete protein supplies all nine essential amino acids in adequate proportions relative to human requirements.
What it means
Complete does not mean that a food supplies every nutrient or that it is the only useful protein source. A varied diet can combine protein sources across the day. Protein quantity and overall food choices still matter.
A practical example
Eggs, dairy and soy are familiar examples of complete protein sources. Meals based on a variety of legumes and grains can also contribute to meeting amino acid needs without requiring every ingredient to be complete.
Putting it into practice
Use the concept to understand food and supplement labels, not to dismiss plant foods. Collagen is not a complete protein and should not be treated as a direct nutritional substitute for all other dietary protein.
Related terms
Protein · Essential Amino Acids · Macronutrients
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