Multiple factors – many of them extremely variable in character – affect how quickly your body metabolizes protein. Because protein foods themselves differ significantly in composition, it is impossible to predict accurately how long it will take to metabolize protein. However, a basic knowledge of the mechanics of protein metabolism and the factors that may have an impact on it is helpful in understanding how your body utilizes these foods.
Process of Metabolism
Human metabolism is a collection of complex biochemical reactions that transform the food you eat into the energy your body requires to function. The metabolic process involves two main phases of activity -- anabolism and catabolism -- that affect not just dietary protein but the breakdown of the other major macronutrients, which are carbohydrates and fats. During metabolism, your body converts protein into amino acids, carbohydrates into sugars such as glucose, and fats into fatty acids, according to KidsHealth. The preferred fuel for energy is the sugar derived from carbohydrates. However, under certain circumstances, your body can utilize amino acids and fatty acids for energy.
Anabolism of Protein
The anabolic phase of protein metabolism refers to the conversion of dietary protein into various body systems and structures. During this phase, the body transforms amino acids from the protein you’ve digested into new proteins that make up cell structure, enzymes, hormones, antibodies and clotting chemicals, according to Steve Michalik, author of “Atomic Fitness.” Catalysts for this synthesis of new proteins include insulin, thyroxine and human growth hormone. High-protein diets are particularly important during periods of strenuous exercise because protein constitutes the major ingredient in cell structure, including the cells that make up the body’s musculature.
Catabolism of Protein
In contrast to anabolism, which is essentially a building process, catabolism involves the breakdown of the protein in cell tissues into its constituent ingredients, such as amino acids and nitrogen. These two metabolic processes are going on constantly, creating a pool of amino acids and nitrogen that your body can draw upon as needed, according to Bryant W. Miles, professor of biochemistry at Texas A&M University. Thyroxine, which is a catalyst in protein anabolism, also serves a similar function in protein catabolism. External factors that can trigger protein catabolism include prolonged stress, traumatic injury and inadequate intake of dietary protein.
Variable Factors
Variable factors that help determine the speed and quality of your body’s protein metabolism are both internal and external in character. Healthy levels of thyroxine, a hormone secreted by the thyroid gland, help to ensure that the body’s overall metabolism of protein is handled expeditiously. Insulin and human growth hormone play key roles in the anabolism of protein. Since metabolism involves the conversion of all macronutrients into the components necessary to sustain life, dietary protein competes with carbohydrates and fats for primacy in the metabolic process. The delicate balance of protein anabolism and catabolism can be upset by such external factors as illness, stress and dietary deficiencies.
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