Proteins : The Building Block of the Body

The most important fact about protein is human body just cannot do well without it. The protein deficiency symptoms come as retardation of physical growth and mental abilities. Gradual protein deficiency in diet has some serious consequences on the body which are very difficult to reverse. Proteins are nitrogenous substances which repair waste and build new tissues. They are essential for the growth and maintenance of the body.

They are complex organic compounds which contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen. The protein molecule is composed of a number of simpler compounds called amino acids. All the wear and tear of the body caused by the continuous functions of the organs like heart, lungs, stomach, is made up by the proteins we take. Proteins provide the necessary material to build new cells for growth or replace those lost in wear and tear. So it becomes equally important for all age group to keep a strict eye on their daily protein intake, especially children, older citizens.

Proteins are present in foods obtained from animals and in foods from vegetables. Proteins from both animal kingdom and plant kingdom should be consumed. Vegetarians with a lacto vegetarian diet (milk and related product with vegetables) almost fulfill all the needs of the body. Some advocate for eggs also. This is known as lacto-oval-vegetarianism.

To answer, what is the daily recommended amount for protein, 40/50 grams of protein should be in our daily diet. Some are also of the view that one gram of protein should be taken for 1 kg of body weight.

When proteins are digested, amino acids are left. The human body needs a number of amino acids to break down food. Amino acids need to be eaten in large enough amounts for optimal health.

Amino acids are found in animal sources such as meats, milk, fish, soy, and eggs, as well as in plant sources such as beans, legumes, and nut butters. You do not need to eat animal products to get all the protein you need in your diet.

Amino acids are classified into three groups:

Essential
Nonessential
Conditional

Essential amino acids cannot be made by the body, and must be supplied by food. They do not need to be eaten at one meal. The balance over the whole day is more important.
Nonessential amino acids are made by the body from essential amino acids or in the normal breakdown of proteins.
Conditional amino acids are usually not essential, except in times of illness and stress.