Protein The body’s building blocks

Proteins main function Build and repair body tissue Provides some energy

Protein is a food group in myplate and includes meat, poultry, eggs, nuts, beans and seeds Protein provides 4 calories per gram

How often do we need Protein? Daily! The body does not produce protein. You must eat it. Keep meat and poultry portions small and lean Include at least 8 oz. of seafood per week

Proteins are made of Amino Acids Amino acids are the building blocks from which new proteins are made. The body cannot manufacture essential amino acids so they must be obtained from food

Amino Acids There are 22 different amino acids 9 are essential for good health.

Complete Proteins Any food that has all 9 essential amino acids. Complete proteins come from animal sources. ◦ Meat ◦ Poultry ◦ Fish Exceptions: Tofu, made from soy bean

Incomplete Proteins Contain some but not all amino acids Comes from plants sources: Grains Dried Beans Nuts Seeds

Complementary Proteins Complementary proteins are a grain combined with any nut, seed or legume Incomplete proteins can be combined to create complementary proteins ◦ Beans with rice ◦ Peanut butter with whole wheat bread