Proteins

Proteins are essential nutrients for the human body. They are one of the building blocks of body tissue and can also serve as a fuel source. As a fuel proteins provide as much energy density as carbohydrates.

Why is protein an important nutrient?

Ø  It is an important component of every cell in the body.

Ø  Body uses protein to build and repair tissues.

Ø  Protein is essential for good health.

Ø  Body also uses protein to make enzymes, hormones, antibodies and other body chemicals.

Ø  Protein is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood.

Nutritional value of protein

Protein is essential for growth and repair of the body and maintenance of good health. Protein also provides energy.  1 gm of protein provides 4 Kcal. The Reference Nutrient Intake (RNI)is set at 0.75 gm of protein per kg body weight/day for adults. The amount of protein we need changes during a lifetime.

Do we need protein?

Ø  Every cell in the human body contain protein

Ø  The basic structure of protein is a chain of amino acids

Ø  We need protein in our diet to help our body to repair cells and make new ones

Ø  Protein is also important for growth and development in children,, teenagers and pregnant women.

Examples -à collagen, insulin and antibodies.

Proteins are made up of smaller building blocks called amino acids joined together in chains. There are 20 different amino acids.

Dietary Intake of Protein

The DRI (Dietary Reference Intake) is 0.8 gm of protein per kg of body weight or 0.36 gms per pound. This amounts to 56 gms/day -à for average sedentary man

46gms/day -à for average sedentary women.