The cutting edge

Nutritionist TANYA ZUCKERBROT, M.S., R.D., provides answers for your most pressing dietary dilemmas

Q: What's the real difference between complete and incomplete protein? Does it matter which kind I eat?

A: Think of protein as clothing. Some clothes come complete--like a suit. Others you mix and match: jeans from one rack, a shirt from another. Proteins, too, come complete or as incomplete parts that work together.

Complete proteins such as meats, cheeses, and eggs have all nine essential amino acids required by the body. Incomplete proteins--from foods such as grains, beans, vegetables, and nuts--are missing at least one of those acids. But don't worry. There's no need to eat according to whether something is complete or incomplete. As long as you take in a variety of foods throughout the day, you'll get all the protein and nutrients your body needs to stay healthy.

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