If an adolescent diet relies on vegetables and legumes, what consideration supports protein adequacy?

• A. This diet may provide sufficient essential amino acids.
• B. This diet lacks essential amino acids.
• C. Legumes are not good protein sources.
• D. Only meat provides all amino acids.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that meeting essential amino acid needs can be achieved with plant-based proteins if the intake is adequate and varied. Legumes are strong plant protein sources and supply essential amino acids, though they can be lower in certain ones like methionine. When a diet based on vegetables and legumes includes enough total protein and complementary foods (such as cereals, nuts, or seeds) to balance the amino acid profile over the day, it can provide all the essential amino acids adolescents need for growth. This is why the best choice is that this diet may provide sufficient essential amino acids. It’s not correct to say the diet lacks essential amino acids, nor that legumes aren’t good protein sources, and meat isn’t the only way to obtain all amino acids.