Protein

What is Protein? A chemical compound that is found in every cell of the body. They are made up small units called amino acids.

Amino Acids Scientist have found 20 amino acids that are important to the human body. They have divided them into two groups: Essential amino acids Nonessential amino acids

Essential Amino Acids 9 of the 20 amino acids are called essential amino acids. You need to get these from the food you eat because your body can not make all of these essential amino acids you need to stay healthy.

Nonessential Amino Acids The other 11 amino acids are called nonessential amino acids. You do not have to get these from food because your body can make them fast enough to meet its needs.

Complete Protein These proteins contain all 9 essential amino acids. They support growth and normal maintenance of body tissues Source: Animal foods and soybeans

Incomplete Protein These proteins are missing one or more of the essential 9 amino acids Source: most plant foods They will neither support growth nor provide for normal maintenance However they can complete each example: red beans and rice will make a complete protein.

Why Do We Need Protein? We need the amino acids from proteins for growth, maintenance, and repair of tissues. Protein also aids in the formation of enzymes, some hormones, and antibodies. Regulates the fluid balance in cells. If your diet does not contain the appropriate amount of carbohydrates and fats your body will use protein for an energy source. This is bad because it keeps protein from doing its job to the fullest.

How Much Protein Do We Need? Age, body size, quality of the proteins, and physical state play a role in how much is required. On average about .4 grams of protein per day

Too little, Too much Protein-energy malnutrition - A condition that occurs if your diet does not contain enough protein and calories. It will cause fatigue and weight loss. If the diet has to much protein the body will convert it to fat and store it in the fatty tissue.