Proteins, along with carbohydrates and fats, are the three major nutrients that provide the body with energy.
We can't exist without protein. Its primary function is structural, which means that it mechanically shapes muscles. It is important for our wellbeing to consume enough protein as well as the correct amino acids through a balanced diet.
Proteins: definition
Proteins, along with carbohydrates and fats, are the three major nutrients that provide the body with energy.
We can't exist without protein. Its primary function is structural, which means that it mechanically shapes muscles. It is important for our wellbeing to consume enough protein as well as the correct amino acids through a balanced diet.
protein and foods rich in it
Proteins can be present in all animal-based foods. Meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, and even certain plant foods like nuts and legumes are examples.
Obviously, other grains and vegetables contain trace amounts of protein as well, but we're just talking about traces here.
Protein, like other macronutrients, provides our bodies with just over 4 calories of energy per gram, and it is necessary for survival.
Nutritional supplements
There may be an increased need for a particular amino acid due to its role interfering with a specific bodily operation.
Tryptophan is a well-known example. This crucial amino acid is necessary for the development of melatonin, among other things (the substance that participates in the rhythm of sleep and wake). As a result, people who have difficulty sleeping will benefit from Tryptophan supplements.
There are also several amino acid supplements and dietary supplements on the market that are marketed as amino acids but are really just their precursors, such as taurine, ornithine, and citrulline. According to the description, these are metabolic products from which the body can generate amino acids. As a result, they are not amino acids in and of themselves.
You've already heard of taurine in particular. It is used in energy drinks such as Red Bull and Monster. The name taurina comes from the Latin word taurus, which means "dragon," hence the name Red Bull.
Where are the proteins found
Proteins can be present in high concentrations in animal-derived foods. As previously said, these are also high-quality proteins, which means they contain all of the necessary amino acids in an easy-to-absorb form.
It is not necessary to consume animal products solely for the purpose of obtaining protein. If you don't eat meat and just eat fruits, whether you're vegetarian or vegan, you'll need to make more educated dietary decisions. In this case, you must pay close attention to your dietary protein intake.
Some plant foods, by definition, contain a lot of protein. Others, on the other hand, are not.
The drawbacks of many protein-rich plant-based foods are that they do not always contain all of the necessary amino acids and that protein is less easily absorbed. As a result, vegetarians are recommended to consume 25% more protein.
Read also : Pre-Workout Supplements - What It Does
If you only eat vegetables, you must be careful with all of the essential amino acids.
Sources of proteins of animal origin
- eggs
- Poultry
- Meat
- fish
- cheese
- Aleppo
Protein sources of plant origin
- Nuts and peanuts
- Legumes
- bean
- Quinoa
- Soy (products), tofu, tempeh
- Some superfoods like hemp seeds
- To a lesser extent, vegetables
When proteins are important
We cannot do without protein, so it always matters. But in some cases, it is more important than usual.
- For the development of children
- For athletes who need to recover from training
- For people who want to lose weight
- For people who need to heal their wounds
- For people who need to recover from surgery
- For pregnant women
Protein deficiency
If a person does not eat enough protein, they may face consequences such as:
- Stunted growth (in children only)
- Loss of muscle mass
- The immune system is compromised
- Weak heart
- Breathing problems
Prolonged protein deficiency in an already weakened body can have severe consequences.
Post a Comment