Proteins Long chains of amino acids (AA) Contain C, H, O, and N (“Amine” means nitrogen containing) Virtually all proteins are combinations of only 20 different AAs but unlimited possible combinations and 1,000s of AAs in length All body cells make proteins and all the necessary AAs must be present Liver can make 11 of the 20 AAs Other 9 are “Essential” AAs AAs can be reused again and again.
Famous Proteins – Roles in our bodies Hemoglobin Actin & Myosin Collagen in skin, tendons, ligaments Hormones , Enzymes, Antibodies, & clottting factors
Proteins: Complete vs. Incomplete a.k.a. High Quality vs. Low Quality
Complementary Proteins
Protein content of foods Meats and Legumes Serving size realistic? Advantages of legumes?... How much is enough? Teenagers/Adults… 50 gm/day Meats & legumes
Protein sources in typical Protein sources in typical* American diet Not what it should be but rather what it is…