Questions: Multiple Choice Question
Although a vegan may be getting adequate total protein, what specific type of protein may be deficient in their diet?
Low reference value
Limiting amino acid
High biological value
Transcript text: Multiple Choice Question
Although a vegan may be getting adequate total protein, what specific type of protein may be deficient in their diet?
Low reference value
Limiting amino acid
High biological value
Solution
The answer is the second one: Limiting amino acid.
Explanation for each option:
Low reference value: This term is not typically used in the context of protein deficiency in a diet. It refers to a standard or benchmark value used for comparison, which is not directly related to the specific type of protein that may be deficient in a vegan diet.
Limiting amino acid: This is the correct answer. A limiting amino acid is an essential amino acid that is present in the smallest quantity in a diet relative to the body's needs. In a vegan diet, certain essential amino acids may be present in lower amounts because plant-based proteins often do not contain all essential amino acids in the required proportions.
High biological value: This term refers to proteins that contain all essential amino acids in the right proportions and are easily utilized by the body. Animal proteins typically have a high biological value, but this does not address the specific deficiency that may occur in a vegan diet.
Summary:
A vegan diet may be deficient in specific essential amino acids, known as limiting amino acids, which are necessary for the body to function properly.