When we think of protein, we often think of meat. There are many foods that contain proteins including nuts, vegetables, seeds, legumes (beans, peas, lentils), eggs and milk products, to name a few.
Proteins are essential for when the body is growing, repairing or replacing tissue. This doesn’t mean only young people or injured people need protein. Our bodies are constantly replacing cells, for example skin cells or blood cells, and our hair and nails are always growing.
Protein also helps other essential reactions in our bodies. It helps regulate our fluid balance and hormones. And, in desperate times, proteins will act as an energy source.
Basically, protein is essential for our bodies and should make up 10%-35% of our energy intake. How much you need is, again, specific to each person.