Proteins

So for us to have a better understanding of nutrition we need to have more information on the nutrients and what there functions are. So today I will be writing about Proteins, 'Why proteins first?' you ask, well no particularly reason I just thought to start at this one.

What is Protein?

A collagen triple helix. Source: Wikipedia

Protein is an essential part of every living things. It is composed of different amino-acids in one or more chains. These chains perform a massive array of functions within the body and are very essential, many of these amino-acids need to be provided by food. When a protein contains all the essential amino-acids in the correct proportion are said to be of high biological value.

There are two kinds of proteins:-

1. Animal Protein. This is obviously found in meat, game, poultry, fish, eggs, milk and cheese. Some of these proteins names collagen, myosin (meat, poultry and fish), albumin, ovoitellin (eggs), and casein (milk and cheese).
2. Vegetable Protein. Most of these proteins are found in the seeds of vegetables. Greent and Root vegetables have a low proportion of protein compared to their weight. Peas, beans and nuts have a higher value and contain the most amount of protein, however not necessarily of high biological value. Cereals such as wheat, are very good because of the amount eaten in a typical sitting. Some of these protein names are gliadin, glutenin.

It is preferable that the body gets a mix of both animal and vegetable protein as it helps the body get a complete variety of the amino-acids it needs. However you can still be fairly healthy on a vegetarian and vegan diet. During the digestion process, proteins are broken down into amino-acids and these are then adsorbed into the bloodstream.

What does our body use it for?

Proteins are essential for the growth and repair of the body tissues. It can also be use as a fuel source if the body is running low on carbohydrates and lipids. It is important that children, expectant and nursing mothers get more protein than other adults. You can go over on your protein intake, it will be used for energy and fuel. However continual excessive consumption of protein can lead to kidney stones and liver related problems.

The minimum recommended intake of protein is:-

• 0.75 grams per kilo Adult Female
• 0.84 grams per kilo Adult Male
• 1 gram per kilo for expectant and nursing mothers

Effects of cooking on protein

When proteins are heated they coagulate (set) at different temperatures, when they go over their setting temp shrinkage occurs. This is most noticeable when grilling or roasting meats. Protein is easier to digest when it is moderately cooked rather than under or over cooked, as is most common with many households.