Each type of cell in every animal and plant contains its own particular kinds of protein. According to the Natural Health Research Institute, protein is the second most abundant substance in the body. Proteins provide vital functions for your body and are beneficial to your diet. The types of protein that should be consumed vary. Consuming animal proteins as well as plant-based proteins is important. Proteins help build blood cells and are used for energy.
Functions of Protein
Protein performs many vital functions in your body. It is needed for building, maintaining and repairing all body cells. Cells are constantly being replaced throughout your life. Protein is an important part of red and white blood cells. It aids in the clotting of blood. Red blood cells only last for about three months and then need to be replaced. This makes protein even more important. Enzymes are important protein-containing substances in your body. They initiate essential chemical reactions. Digestive enzymes that break down food into smaller components need protein to function. Many hormones are made by proteins and help your body fight infections.
Amino Acids
Protein also serves as a source of energy. When your body does not get enough carbohydrates and fats for energy, protein can be used. Proteins are made up of amino acids, the building blocks of all proteins. When you eat a food that contains protein, it is broken down into amino acids.
Your body needs 20 different amino acids to make proteins. Eleven of these amino acids can be made by your body, but the other nine must come from food. These nine amino acids are considered essential.
Types of Protein
Since your body needs nine essential amino acids, certain foods must be consumed in your diet. Animal proteins provide all of these amino acids, so they are considered to be complete proteins. Animal protein sources are beef, veal, lamb, poultry, pork, fish, eggs, milk, cheese and yogurt. Plant foods usually lack a few essential amino acids, so they are known as incomplete proteins. Plant proteins such as cereals are low in two essential amino acids. Legumes such as beans and peas are also low in two different essential amino acids. However, to get enough of the essential amino acids, cereal and legumes could be eaten together.
Protein Recommendations
The amount of protein you need depends on your physical activity, gender and age. The USDA Food Guide Pyramid recommends men and women eat 5 to 6 oz. of protein every day for moderate physical activity. For women who are 19 to 70 years of age, 46 g of protein per day is recommended. Males between the ages of 19 and 70 should be consuming 56 g per day.
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