Should You Be Focusing on Protein or Fiber? Dietitians Weigh In
TODAY.com • • health
Key Points:
- Both protein and fiber are essential nutrients that support overall health, and dietitians emphasize the importance of including adequate amounts of both in daily meals rather than prioritizing one over the other.
- Protein is crucial for building and repairing muscle, supporting enzymes, hormones, immunity, and overall cell function; it is especially important for older adults, athletes, and those recovering from surgery or injury.
- Fiber aids digestive health by regulating bowel movements, supporting a healthy gut microbiome, lowering LDL cholesterol, and improving blood sugar control; it is often underconsumed and should be prioritized by those with digestive issues or cholesterol concerns.
- Combining protein and fiber in meals enhances satiety, slows digestion, stabilizes blood sugar, and provides complementary health benefits, making them more effective together than separately.
- Dietitians recommend building meals around a protein source and adding fiber-rich foods, such as grilled chicken with lentil salad or Greek yogurt with berries and seeds, to achieve balanced nutrition and support long-term health.
