what element makes protein different from carbohydrate and fat?
The element Nitrogen makes protein different from carbohydrate and protein. amino acids. The are 23 amino acids. Our bodies produce some. There are 8 amino acids that our bodies can't produce, we have to take them in from food sources. If they contain all 8, they are a complete protein, like meat fish, poultry, eggs. If they have some of the proteins, they are a particial or incomplete protein, like whole grains, nuts, legumes, dairy products. Source(s): I teach nutrition.