Proteins

What are proteins? A chain of amino acids--the building blocks of protein 22 amino acids have been identified

Proteins Complete and Incomplete Complete—foods from animal sources Piece of Ham Incomplete—foods from plant sources lacking at least one essential amino acid Wheat Cracker With PB becomes complete Beans with rice becomes complete Complete Incomplete

Proteins Protein is needed for… Growth and maintenance Continuous supply of proteins to grow and repair worn-out and damaged parts Growth chart Enzymes Chemical reactions Hormones Regulate conditions in the body Thyroid—regulate metabolism Insulin—maintain the level of glucose

Proteins Antibodies Proteins that fight invaders Ex: Flu Fluid balance Cells life depends on fluid Too much—rupture Too little—stops activity

Proteins Excess—Too much Can be harmful Broken down and stored as fat Extra work for the body to break proteins down Deficiency—Too little Kwashiorkor Discolored skin, body sores, a bulging abdomen, and listlessness (lack of energy) Found mainly in 3 rd world countries Lose weight Don’t grow properly Die of starvation

FYI!! Remember… Carbs = 4 cal per gram Proteins = 4 cal per gram Fats = 9 cal per gram