FOOD COMBINING
Last Friday and the Friday before, I discussed the use of combinations of foods to obtain protein. All of which was usable proteins!
Lappe points to a scientist by the name of R.J. Williams, who stated that “…if beef were the only source of protein, on person’s minimum protein needs could be met with two ounces of meat; yet another individual might require eight ounces (165).” The ADA lists averages, not what would fulfill individual needs.
If an individual has health issues, or is aging their needs are different than a 28 year-old healthy individual. Lappe recommends we learn to observe our own needs by using what “Williams calls ‘body wisdom’…(which) is aware of how you feel- - (167).”
Signs to look for, Lappe points out, would be the slowing down of wound healing, lack of energy, loss or deterioration of hair, nails, and skin (168). Irritability is another sign of nutritional deficiency, and lack of well-being.
The body needs to have certain reactions from protein that assists in our well-being. These reactions are what we would call the metabolism. “Proteins such as insulin, which regulates metabolic processors, we call ‘hormones’; …(168)” Proteins also are important for the metabolic reactions of enzymes. In order to oxygenate the blood, in what is called hemoglobin, we need proteins from which hemoglobin is built. This blood protein helps prevent excessive alkalinity or acidity (more on this aspect in another set of blogs). (Lappe,169)
I would also add to this list: bowel irregularity, diarrhea, GERD, low immunity (such as frequent colds and allergies), Poor digestion is a really good indication that you are not eating right for your body.
Do all the protein complementary foods have to be eaten in the same meal? No it is not necessary to do this at each meal. But, if not done within a short time-frame, the partial Amino Acid of the is not utilized by the body, and less of each of the other Amino Acids are used, as well. (Lappe, 180)
So, if a person does not eat all the complete proteins (combined) at a meal, what can they do? Eat more frequently, and eat foods that fulfill the requirements within a few hours of each meal. (Lappe,182)
more on next Friday...
REFERENCE:
Lappe, Frances Moore. Diet for a Small Planet, 20th anniversary edition. Ballantine Books, 1991
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