Protein Flashcards
Protein composition / elements
Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen
Protein is the only nutrient which has nitrogen in it. What is nitrogen responsible for
Nitrogen is the element responsible for growth.
What do these elements make up?
These elements make up units called amino acids
What is the structure of protein.
Protein is a number of amino acids joined together by peptide links to for a chain
Draw a diagram of the structure of protein
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What happens to these protein chains during the digestion of food and why?
Protein chains are broken down during the digestion of food, freeing each amino acid so that it can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
What 2 groups are protein classified by?
High biological value and low biological value.
What is high biological value?
High biological value contains all essential amino acids.
Mainly animal products.
What are essential amino acids?
Essential amino acids cannot be made in the body
What are sources of high biological value protein?
Meat,fish,eggs
Cheese,milk
*soya beans
What is low biological value protein?
Low biological value does not contain all essential amino acids.
Plant sources
What are sources of low biological value protein?
Peas Beans Lentils Nuts Cereals
What are the functions of protein?
For the growth of all body cells e.g. skin and bones.
The repair of worn out or damaged cells e.g. cuts
The production of hormones, enzymes and antibodies which are required to keep the body healthy.
Excess is used for heat and energy ( extra)
What is the reference intake of protein?
The amount of protein required by each person is related to his/hers weight.
RDA of protein is 1 gram of protein per kg of body weight.
