Protein
Protein From Greek “protos” Major component in all animal and plant tissues Made up of hydrogen, oxygen, carbon and nitrogen
Chemical structure - Protein Source: http://minimalpotential.files.wordpress.com/2007/11/3351.png
What exactly is protein? Amino Acids Building blocks for proteins 20 amino acids 11 can be made in the body 9 are essential
Protein’s Role Enzymes Antibodies Hemoglobin Hormones Facilitate and accelerate chemical reactions Antibodies Fight illness Hemoglobin Transport oxygen in the blood Hormones Regulate body functions
Protein’s Role continued Growth and maintenance Help grow and repair body tissues Add structure to body tissues
Digestion & Absorption Source: http://library.thinkquest.org/11226/image/digest.jpg
Recommended amounts 10-35% of intake should be protein Males (18 + y/o): 59-63 grams/day Females (18 + y/o): 44-50 grams/day Calculation: 0.8 gram/kilogram of body weight Infants needs the most protein
Food and protein How do you get protein in your diet? Animal products are the best source Meat, eggs, milk, legumes, grains, vegetables
Complete proteins Supply all essential amino acids in the correct amount for the body to use. Animal proteins are complete
Complementary proteins Plant proteins are incomplete Exception: soybean protein Vegetarians need to eat plant proteins in combination
Too much protein? It is possible to get too much. Extra calories Kidney strain Mineral loss Heart disease Cancer
Choosing proteins What foods do you eat that contain protein? Are there some that are better than others?
Vegetarianism What is vegetarianism? Why become a vegetarian? Scarcity of food Religious beliefs Concern for health or the environment Concerns about animals
Types of vegetarians Semi-vegetarian Pesco-vegetarian Lacto-ovo-vegetarian Lacto-vegetarian Ovo-vegetarian Vegan Fruitarian
Vegetarian Health Benefits Lower risk of heart disease Lower risk of cancer Less likely to be overweight
Vegetarian Health Risks Not getting enough protein Osteoporosis Anemia Choosing foods to eliminate health risks