Top gastroenterologist ranks common non-vegetarian protein s ..

Protein is absolutely essential for your body—and if you starve it of this power fuel, don’t be surprised if your system taps out on growth, repair, and basic maintenance. But here’s the real tea: are the proteins you're eating actually doing their job, or are they just there for show? How do you even know? Well, Dr. Saurabh Sethi just spilled the beans—and the rankings may shock you.

Let’s begin with the most misleading ones—the so-called “protein sources” that look good on paper but wreak havoc inside. Farm-raised tilapia, for instance, received a dismal 2. While it wears the mask of a healthy option, it lacks the omega-3 punch you'd expect from a fish. Deli meats didn’t fare any better with a score of 1, thanks to their generous helping of preservatives like nitrates that disturb gut bacteria and promote inflammation.

Now comes the real shocker. Some proteins went below zero. Fried chicken, hot dogs, bacon, and sausages aren’t just processed—they’re practically a crime scene for your gut health. Scoring between -5 to -10, these options are high in saturated fats, packed with additives, and known to disrupt your gut microbiome while also putting your heart and brain at risk.

If you thought lamb and beef were solid choices, think again. Lamb landed in the middle of the pack at 5—nutrient-rich but higher in fat, which can be a little heavy on digestion. Beef dropped even lower to 4, due to its inflammation potential, especially in processed forms. Tuna, despite its reputation, scored a disappointing 3, primarily because of its high mercury content that can affect gut health in the long run.

And now, the true winners. Wild-caught salmon took the crown with a perfect 10. Rich in omega-3s and anti-inflammatory benefits, it's the gold standard of non-vegetarian protein. Sardines and mackerel weren’t far behind with a score of 9, bringing in vitamin D and essential fats. Eggs stood tall at 8, praised for their bioavailability and nutrient density. Meanwhile, chicken and turkey secured a respectable 7—but cooking methods can make or break their benefits.

In a world obsessed with high-protein everything, it’s worth asking—is your protein working for you, or just pretending to? Turns out, it’s not just about loading up on meat—it’s about choosing the ones that love your gut back.
**This news was published on Times of India on 5th August, 2025.

 

 

 

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