Which term best describes a protein that provides all essential amino acids and is considered a complete protein?

• A. essential amino acids
• B. nonessential amino acids
• C. complete protein
• D. glycogen

Answer: (C)

The idea here is protein quality and amino acid balance. A complete protein is one that provides all nine essential amino acids in sufficient amounts, which the body cannot make on its own. This kind of protein supports tissue growth, repair, and overall protein synthesis, making it the best description for a protein that fulfills all essential amino acid needs. Animal-based foods (like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy) are classic complete proteins, and some plant sources such as soy and quinoa can also be complete.

Essential amino acids refer to the actual amino acids that must come from food, not the protein as a whole. Nonessential amino acids are those the body can synthesize. Glycogen, on the other hand, is a stored form of glucose, a carbohydrate, not a protein.