Protein needs are greater during illness, treatment and recovery. The Recommended Dietary Allowance of protein for healthy men is 56 grams per day and 45 grams for healthy. Meat, chicken, fish, eggs and cheese are excellent sources of protein, but may not be appealing in large amounts. Milk products provide excellent protein, if you can tolerate them. You can add skim milk powder to foods to fortify the protein content.
Soy protein is an excellent non-animal source of complete protein.
Soy provides not only isoflavones, but phytoestrogens and other compounds that may reduce tumor growth. A balanced diet to keep your body strong includes a variety of foods every day. You need protein to heal and fight infections, but also iron, vitamins and minerals. Fruits and vegetables deliver not only vitamins and minerals, but other anti-oxidants and plant chemicals. Dairy foods provide protein, calcium and vitamins.