does dal contain protein - #23206
I am really confused about my diet lately. I started doing this vegetarian thing and I keep hearing that dal is a good source of protein. But I'm not totally sure about this. Like, I made a big pot of dal the other day, thinking it would help with my protein intake, but then I started second-guessing myself. I mean, does dal contain protein or is it just a myth? Sometimes I feel like I'm just eating lentils for the sake of it. I even checked the nutrition labels on the packages, they say there’s protein, but how much is enough? I’ve been feeling kinda tired and was wondering if my lack of energy is connected to my protein intake from dal. Also, what about combining it with rice? Does that help boost the protein content? I read somewhere that combining foods can make a complete protein, but I’m not really clear on the science of it. I just want to be sure I’m not missing something crucial for my health. Does dal contain protein enough for someone who’s active or should I be looking for something else to add to my meals? Any thoughts would be so appreciated!
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Doctors' responses
Yes, dal certainly contains protein, making it a helpful component of a vegetarian diet. Lentils, the primary ingredient in dal, are indeed a good source of plant-based protein. You typically get around 9 grams of protein per 100 grams of cooked lentils which might sound moderate, but it’s quite substantial when incorporated with other plant protein sources throughout the day. For someone active, ensuring you’re getting enough protein can be important, but also remember that energy levels can be affected by other dietary components such as iron and overall calorie intake. If you’re feeling tired, it might be worth considering if your overall diet is balanced, not just protein.
The combination of dal with rice is a classic example of creating a complete protein, where the amino acids missing from one food are complemented by another. This combination can enhance the protein quality and make it comparable to animal protein sources in terms of amino acid profile. As an active individual, monitoring not just protein but overall nutrient intake is essential. Iron, B12, and other vitamins and minerals should be looked at too, especially when on a vegetarian diet. If you find yourself consistently low in energy despite feeling like you’re getting adequate protein, it might be beneficial to review your diet with a nutritionist. Additionally, diversifying your protein sources can help—adding tofu, chickpeas, nuts or seeds can supplement your dal intake nicely. Always listen to your body and adjust as needed; sometimes it’s just about finding the right balance for your unique needs. If fatigue persists, consulting a healthcare professional would be wise to rule out other underlying issues.
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