Protein 1.3 Flashcards
What are proteins used for in living organisms?
- Building muscle and recovering faster
Proteins are crucial for all bodily processes.
How much energy does each gram of protein yield?
Each gram of protein yields 16.7 kJ of energy.
Protein is used as a fuel source only when carbohydrates and fats are not available.
What conditions can lead to protein breakdown?
Protein breakdown can occur due to:
* Significant energy debt
* Starvation or malnutrition
* Inadequate fuel use during sports
* Dietary disorders or medical issues
Preferred fuel sources are carbohydrates and fats.
How many proteins are estimated to be in every cell of the human body?
There are approximately 42 million proteins in every cell.
Cells synthesize proteins from materials consumed from animal or plant-based products.
What are proteins made of?
Proteins are formed from small molecules called amino acids.
Amino acids are composed of hydrogen, nitrogen, carbon, and oxygen.
How many amino acids are required to make proteins in the human body?
20 amino acids are required to make proteins in the human body.
What are essential amino acids?
Essential amino acids must be consumed as the body cannot create them.
Examples include histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine.
What are nonessential amino acids?
Nonessential amino acids can be made by the body in most situations.
What distinguishes complete proteins from incomplete proteins?
Complete proteins contain all essential amino acids, while incomplete proteins contain some but not all essential amino acids.
Examples of complete proteins include meat and some plant-based proteins.
What is the preferred type of protein source?
Leaner animal-based protein sources are preferred due to lower saturated fat content.
Why is it important to consume a variety of plant proteins?
A diverse range of plant proteins is important to ensure a complete intake of essential amino acids.
What is the bioavailability of animal proteins compared to plant proteins?
Animal proteins have a bioavailability of approximately 90-99%, while plant proteins have a lower bioavailability of 70-90%.
Legumes can provide slightly higher bioavailability (~90%+).
What is the recommended daily protein intake for males and females?
Males should consume 0.84 grams per kg of body weight per day, while females should consume 0.75 grams per kg.
What is the maximum amount of protein the body can effectively absorb?
Amount effectively absorbed is approximately 2.7 grams per kg of body weight.
What are the effects of excess protein consumption?
Excess protein consumption can lead to:
* Conversion of amino acids into glucose and glycogen
* Conversion of glycogen into fats if stores are full
* Potential obesity due to increased fat storage
The body cannot store amino acids.
What are the consequences of protein deficiency?
Consequences of protein deficiency can include:
* Stunted growth
* Low muscle density or tone
* Impaired immune function
Protein deficiency is rare in Australia but more common in poorer regions.
