protein Flashcards
what are proteins made up of?
proteins are large compounds made up of amino acids, which are known as the building blocks of proteins.
what elements comprise protein?
carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen
what is the recommended daily intake of proteins?
15-25% of the daily total energy intake should be protein,
explain the difference between essential and nonessential amino acids.
essential amino acids are amino acids that cannot be produced by the body and can only be provided through the consumption of food.
nonessential amino acids are amino acids that the body can produce itself.
what dietary sources can protein be obtained through?
animal and plant based products
animal products contain all 9 essential amino acids, plant-based products are incomplete proteins that are missing one or more of the 9 essential amino acids.
explain the difference between overconsumption and the deficiency of protein
TOO MUCH
overconsumption of protein can result in obesity and cardiovascular disease (once glycogen stores are full, protein it is stored as fat. )
osteoporosis, excessive protein consumption can inhibit the absorption of calcium, which is needed for strong and healthy bones.
liver and kidney disease - higher levels of proteins make these organs work harder to excrete the waste.
TOO LITTLE
- not reaching max height or weight
- anaemia (iron deficiency)
- period loss in females
what is the role of protein?
proteins are required for the structure, function and regulation of the body’s tissues and organs.
what are complementary proteins?
sometimes two plant-based protein sources must be combined together, so that all 9 essential amino acids are supplied by the meal, these are known as complementary proteins.
for example, vegans must consume a high amount of protein rich foods such as quinoa, soy and hemp, incorporating complementary proteins such as beans, rice and corn assists they are reaching the recommended intake of protein.
