KNIFE, FORK, MUSCLE_ Book I_ DI - Brooks D. Kubik (1)

Q. Do protein foods supply other nutrients?
A. Absolutely! Animal proteins supply fats and calories, as well as plenty of
vitamins and minerals. People often think that fruits, vegetables and whole
grain products are their primary (or only) sources of vitamins and minerals.
That’s not true. Beef, pork, chicken, eggs and other sources of animal protein
are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals, including large amounts of the
B vitamins. In fact, animal foods are the only natural source of vitamin B12,
so vegetarians, vegans and others who avoid or eat only minimal amounts of
animal foods may be at risk of developing a vitamin B12 deficiency. Foods
providing vegetable protein also provide significant amounts of vitamins and
minerals, as well as carbohydrates. Thus, by keeping your protein intake
reasonably high, you supply many other vital nutrients to your body.