Proteins are defined as complex molecules that consist of linked amino acids. It is the most important macro nutrient that is required to build and maintain the entire body structure. it has been surveyed that to function properly, a body needs a large amount of proteins. Also, it is seen that the body does not utilize the full protein at a time. After absorbing the required quantity of protein, it converts the rest into carbohydrates and fat which is further get used for energy.
Remember, protein could not be stored. We all know that about 1/6th part of our body consists of proteins. To maintain healthy and hardworking muscles, body needs sufficient protein to consume. Protein is not absorbed directly by the body rather it is ingested and broke out into small amino acids by the help of digestive enzymes. Then the amino acids take entrance in the blood and travel into the body cells.
Benefits of Proteins
Proteins are very essential for the body as it forms the main structural element of the body. In addition to this, proteins also give the following benefits like it helps in growth and development of the body; it also repairs the damaged tissues. Protection to the immune function is also done by protein and it acts as a helper in digestion process. Proteins are thus consumed to give healthy bones, teeth and nails. Also, it is used to give energy to the body in case carbohydrates are insufficient to do so. They could also formulate a person to use his senses properly.
Foods that contains protein
Complete proteins are defined as those sources of food which contains enough amounts of amino acids in it which are fully capable to fulfill the desired need of proteins in the body. It has been analyzed that in the cooked meat and dairy products the content of protein is in enough quality as compared to the cooked cereals. Therefore all meat and animal products are source of complete protein. For e.g. beef, poultry, eggs, fish, milk, milk products, etc.
Plant foods carry same amount of amino acids as animal foods contain but in less ratio as they lack in some or the other important element of amino acid which make it unfit for being a complete protein. But sometimes these plant foods get mixed with the animal products so that they can be converted into complete protein food and can be easily taken in by the body. For e.g. milk and cereals are mixed together, and rice and beans are mixed together. To give the body complete protein food, we focus on amino acids that are considered to be an essential part of protein. Therefore, while selecting a particular food for the body, the main focus is kept on the amino acid that is being supplied to the body in a necessary amount.
How much protein a body needs
To maintain a healthy lifestyle, a body needs more than enough proteins that a body could intake in a day. If the body of the individual is insufficient to produce ample protein for the body then it is advised to take direct protein foods to keep a regular flow of protein in body. It is assumed that a body needs around 5% of proteins per body weight. Therefore, for a person having a weight of 50 kg, he needs 2.5 grams of protein in his body to perform regular functions properly.
Also, a person should take care that not to intake high protein food for a long time. It may cause severe diseases to liver and kidneys. So, care should be taken on the nutritional charts which consists the intake details of proteins. Remember, maintenance of high protein nutritional charts could cause many of health problems which will become difficult to minimize.
Symptoms of protein deficiency
As explained above, it is harmful to consume more than enough proteins, similarly it is harmful to consume less than required proteins. When a person consumed almost half or less proteins, it is said that he is suffering from protein deficiency. With the following symptoms, it could be easily checked that whether the person is suffering from the protein deficiency or not. The foremost sign of deficiency is weak muscles. Protein is the essential element that helps in developing strong muscles. And if it found out less in the body, it surely affects the body severely. Other symptoms are white spots on nails and breakable hairs, and wrinkling of skin, etc.
To get rid from all the sufferings that could cause by the deficiency of the protein in the body, one should intake proper and regular diet of proteins in the food. Always remember that a healthy mind works well when your body is healthy and for a healthy body, you need to take proper nutrients in your food.