Whether it is Hollywood actor Marissa Tomei stating, “I find that protein wakes up my brain and gets me ready for the rest of my day,” or Friedrich Engels’s philosophical take on life as “a mode of action of proteins,” the value of protein in our health and mental wellbeing is undeniable.
The recently celebrated World Protein Day on February 27, highlighted the right to protein (RTP) to emphasise the critical need for protein balance in our diets for stronger health markers.
RTP has become an important event on many international calendars serving as a pivotal milestone on the path to better health.
Proteins form an essential foundation for life. They breakdown into amino acids, nature’s building blocks for our bodies. Think of amino acids as versatile Lego pieces –they not only construct and maintain our muscles but also play a crucial role in countless biological processes throughout our body.
Every cell in our body speaks the language of amino acids. While some can be made by our body, others – known as indispensable amino acids (IAAs) – must come from the food we eat. So, whether it’s profound longevity, healthy skin, shiny hair or general wellbeing, a daily egg or another protein-rich food is truly a gastronomic hero at our tables.
A fascinating aspect of dietary protein is its diversity. Different protein sources, whether from animals or plants, provide varying combinations and amounts of these essential amino acids. The concept of protein quality measures how well a protein source meets our body’s amino acid needs. Just as a balanced orchestra needs various instruments, our bodies thrive when we consume proteins from multiple sources, each contributing its unique amino acid profile to create a complete nutritional symphony. This explains why nutritionists often recommend combining various protein sources in our daily diet. A diverse protein intake ensures that we receive all the amino acids necessary for optimal bodily function, from maintaining muscle strength to supporting immune function and beyond.
As an agricultural economy high on meat consumption, Pakistan’s protein deficiency is relatively low. However, achieving the perfect nutritional balance remains a crucial issue. The rise of protein-specific diets has sparked a broader conversation about protein intake. We are now seeing a shift from traditional dietary habits to more informed choices.
This shift is particularly evident in urban centers, where the intersection of traditional dietary habits and modern nutritional science creates an interesting dynamic. “Your body needs proteins to build and repair cells in your muscles, bones and skin,” explains cricketer Wasim Akram. “But the key lies in understanding how to source it effectively from our rich culinary heritage.”
It is crucial to promote consistent, stable protein intake, underpinned by a deep understanding of nutrition, to develop optimal dietary patterns for our population.
With growing awareness of the importance of proteins in nutrition, new chicken options-both fresh and frozen – are now widely accessible. Proteins have joined the ranks of essential nutrients like calcium and iron; even surpassed them in terms of widespread recognition. Ironically, whether through the traditional emphasis on extra milk in tea, hot chicken broth at family gatherings or the growing trend of gym-specific vitamin brands in urban population, misconceptions about proteins are also on the rise. The Pakistan Poultry Association is working tirelessly to educate both the farmers and the consumers, ensuring that protein intake remains a priority. Though chicken has always occupied a central place in our feasts, it is now being increasingly recognised for its essential nutritional value, especially for growing children and industrious youth.
Proteins are an crucial for everyone – from pregnant women supporting fetal heath to the elderly maintaining daily strength, students needing extra focus during examinations and or labourers engaging in demanding physical work. A good (protein) diet supports all – from homemakers managing household tasks to an athlete in the field. Traditional Pakistani dishes like lentils, rice, chicken, beans and eggs provide ample protein. Soy is also a fantastic resource and should be incorporated into oils and milk to add a nutritional boost.
The rising popularity of protein supplements in large containers displayed in shop windows is somewhat amusing, considering our cuisine is naturally rich in protein sources. A balanced diet may render these bulky containers unnecessary. A quick review of our household rations reveals the abundant proteins available at home:
Eggs
Chicken meat
Lentils (masoor, moong, chana)
Dairy products (buttermilk, cheese, yogurt)
Plant-based options (chickpeas, red beans, soya beans, dried fruit/ nuts)
Fish
These natural protein sources offer additional benefits, such as fibre, vitamins and minerals, which contribute to overall physical wellbeing – supporting immune function produce hormones and enzymes, build strong bones and promote health.
World Protein Day celebrated the right to protein powered by the United States Soybean Export Council. The USSEC aims to address prevalent health issues through the message: Solve With Protein. The USSEC has rallied brands, thought leaders, community leaders and influencers, to amplify the message of proteins’ importance as the essential macro-nutrient. The RTP initiative has spread across South Asian communities, fostering awareness about the need for protein balance and stronger health outcomes.
In Pakistan, the challenge is not protein availability but rather the education of surrounding its consumption. It is crucial to promote consistent, stable protein intake, underpinned by a deeper understanding of nutrition, to develop optimal dietary patterns for our population.
The writer is an educationist, writer, researcher and corporate host. She can be reached at Shahatariq67@gmail.com.
