Proteins

Question 1

What is protein?

Answer 1

A macronutrient

Question 2

What is protein made from?

Answer 2

Amino acids.

Question 3

What are HBV proteins?

Answer 3

Proteins containing all 20 essential amino acids.

Question 4

What are LBV proteins?

Answer 4

Proteins that only contain some of the 20 essential amino acids.

Question 5

What is protein complementation?

Answer 5

When you combine multiple LBV proteins in a meal to make sure you have all 20 essential amino acids.

Question 6

Give 3 examples of protein complementation meals.

Answer 6

Rice and peas
Beans on toast
Lentil soup and bread

Question 7

How many essential amino acids do adults and children need?

Answer 7

Children: 10
Adults: 8

Question 8

Why do children need more amino acids than adults?

Answer 8

Because they are still growing.

Question 9

What are the HBV sources of protein?

Answer 9

Animal products: Meat, fish, poultry, milk, cheese, yoghurt, eggs.

Question 10

What are the LBV sources of protein?

Answer 10

Plant products: Mycoprotein (Quorn), tofu, TVP, tempeh, nuts, lentils, beans, peas, cereals.

Question 11

What are the four functions of protein in the body?

Answer 11

To create natural substances.
Growth
To repair the body.
Energy.

Question 12

How does protein create natural substances?

Answer 12

Enzymes, hormones and antibodies are made of protein. Enzymes are needed for digestion, hormones are needed for growth and antibodies are needed to fight infection.

Question 13

How does protein help the body grow?

Answer 13

Grow from a baby to adult.
Grow hair and nails.

Question 14

How does protein repair the body?

Answer 14

After injury or illness.
Replace cells, e.g. skin cells.

Question 15

Why is energy not a main function of protein?

Answer 15

The body prefers to use fats and carbohydrates for energy.

Question 16

What are the four effects of a protein deficiency?

Answer 16

Inability to digest.
Skin and nails in poor condition.
Hair loss.
Lack of growth in children.

Question 17

How does a lack of protein cause an inability to digest?

Answer 17

Digestive system must change, so cannot absorb nutrients.

Question 18

How does a lack of protein cause skin and nails to be in poor condition?

Answer 18

They contain protein, so cannot be maintained properly.

Question 19

Why does a lack of protein cause hair loss?

Answer 19

The body will use its limited amount of protein for something essential.

Question 20

What is the effect of excess protein on the body and why?

Answer 20

Liver and kidneys are harmed. This is because protein contains nitrogen, and an excess amount can be harmful. It must be excreted by urine so the liver and kidneys have to work harder.