How Does Protein Work?

What Is Protein?

Proteins are nutrients that are essential for a healthy body. They help form muscles and can also act as fuel for the body when there is no other energy source. In technical terms, proteins are biomolecules and macromolecules. It means that these molecules occur in organisms. Proteins were recognized as molecules occurring in living bodies by the scientist Antoine Fourcroy. They are made up of amino acids.

Functions of Protein in the Body

Proteins perform several functions in the human body. The primary function of proteins is to build muscle. In other words, proteins are responsible for the growth of tissues and also for their maintenance. Proteins also facilitate biochemical reactions. For instance, the enzymes that perform a wide array of functions in an organism’s body are proteins. Various enzymes perform various tasks in the human body. For instance, they help in digestion, energy production, muscle contraction, and blood clotting. Without enzymes, any wound cannot be healed as the blood needs to clot for that. Moreover, without enzymes, one would be left with little to no energy.

Some hormones are also proteins, and they act as a messenger in the body. They become a vehicle for communication in the body. The body consists of organs, tissues, and cells. The body needs something to carry messages between one internal organ to another to work as a whole. For instance, nerves carry messages from the brain to various organs in the body. Proteins do the same.

Proteins also provide structure to nails, hair, and tissues.

Sources of Protein

A balanced diet has to have enough protein-rich foods in it. One can include foods such as lean meat, pulses, eggs whites, legumes, beans, and dairy products to have a protein-rich diet. It’s usually harder for vegetarians and vegans to consume enough protein as there is not much available in vegetarian and non-dairy foods. For them, the primary source of proteins can be soy. There are also many protein shakes and supplements available in the market. Yet, many people prefer natural sources of protein.

It is also important to remember that one should not indulge in overconsumption of protein. Adding too much protein to your diet can become a burden on your kidneys. Moreover, eating extra protein that you don’t need comes with the downside of ingesting extra calories. It’s a good idea to talk to a dietician as they can chalk up a balanced diet that will suit your body and mind.

Protein in Body Building

Any bodybuilder can tell you that protein is vital for building muscles. Those who love to hit the gym regularly and flex those muscles need high amounts of proteins in their diet. Of course, the number is not the same for everyone as it depends upon one’s body weight. Protein is also an essential nutrient for athletes.

Protein Explained