The biological value (BV) of a protein is a measure that assesses how efficiently the body can use a particular dietary protein for tissue protein synthesis. It is a measure of the proportion of absorbed protein from a food source that becomes incorporated into the proteins of the body. The scale typically ranges from 0 to 100, with higher values indicating better protein utilization.
Complete Proteins:
- Definition: Complete proteins are those that provide all the essential amino acids in the proportions needed by the human body. Essential amino acids are those that the body cannot produce on its own and must be obtained from the diet.
- Sources: Animal-based proteins such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products are considered complete proteins. Some plant-based sources, like quinoa and soy, also qualify as complete proteins.
Incomplete Proteins:
- Definition: Incomplete proteins lack one or more essential amino acids, meaning they do not provide all the necessary building blocks for protein synthesis in the body.
