In a vegetarian diet, protein plays a key role as it provides essential building blocks for muscle maintenance and repair. Since vegetarian diets may lack complete protein sources like meat, it's important to consume a variety of plant-based proteins, including legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, to achieve a complete amino acid profile. Adequate protein intake is essential for overall health, supporting immune function, hormone production, and muscle recovery, making it crucial for vegetarians to plan their meals thoughtfully.