Download SCI 241 Protein Article research wk 5 version 6 Protein and the

SCI 241 Protein Article research wk 5 version 6
Protein and the Different Types
Proteins are complex organic molecules made up of amino acids and are chemically similar to lipids and
carbohydrates because they contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. Proteins, however, contain
nitrogen, the element cells need to make a wide array of important biological compounds.
There are many different types of proteins. There is contractile protein which is responsible for
movement; hormonal proteins are the messenger proteins. Hormonal proteins help coordinate certain
bodily activities. Then there are the storage proteins that store the amino acids.
The Role of Amino Acids in Building Protein
Amino acids are muscle tissues and are the building blocks of protein. “Amino acids also play a main part
in physiological processes relating to our energy, recovery, mood, brain function, muscle and strength
gains, and also in our quest for fat loss (NA, 2012)”.
The Risks Associated with Protein Deficiency and Overconsumption
Although food insecurity exists in the United States, protein deficiency is uncommon. People suffering
from alcoholism, anorexia nervosa, or certain intestinal tract disorders are at risk of protein
malnutrition. Skin color, loss of muscle density, chronic diarrhea, hair alterations in thickness or
thinness, and shades of color, a protruded stomach, rashes and edema are symptoms of a lack or
shortage of protein. The experienced feeling of forgetfulness, weariness, annoyance, and lack of concern
are also symptoms of protein loss. A loss in weight, height, and a stimulation of growth give a child a
pastiness appearance.
Most of us eat more protein than we need, and suffer no problems as a result, according to the Centers
for Disease Control. Many people believe high-protein diets can tax the kidneys, but research has not
borne that out. One problem with eating too much of this nutrient, says the CDC, is that by filling up on
protein, you may be eating too little of healthful, carbohydrate-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and
whole grains. If one eats the carbohydrates needed and just add more protein to ones diet, he or she
may result in taking in too many calories. Also many high-protein foods, such as meat and dairy
products, can be high in saturated fat. If you have liver or kidney problems, eating too much protein can
worsen your condition.
Amount of Protein Needed According to Age and Gender
The protein requirements are different for all ages and genders. For adult men and women the
recommended amount of protein is 56 grams for males and 46 grams for females per day. As for
teenage boys and girls the recommended amount for girls is 46 grams. The recommended amount for
boys is 52 grams of protein a day. Last infants are required about 10 grams a day. When a woman is
lactating or is pregnant there is an important exception with the protein intake because the
recommendation increases to 71 grams of protein daily.
The percentage of calories is another way to calculate protein requirements. According to the USDA's
My Pyramid plan, between 17% to 21% percent of total calories would be the protein make up and
recommends at least 10% and no more than 35% of calories from protein.
Some Healthy Nutrient Sources of Protein
Many people associate animal foods with proteins, but beans, seeds, soy, white-meat, some dairy foods
like milk, cheese, and yogurt, grains and certain vegetables are good sources of protein too. One
excellent source of protein is seafood because it is low in fat. For example, salmon is healthy for the heat
and has the omega-3 fatty acids but slightly higher in fat. Another good source of protein is eggs which
are the least expensive form of protein. Then there are the protein on the go items that include protein
shakes and protein bars.
Three Negative Effects of High-Protein Diets
One of the negative effects of high-protein diets is that it can contribute to cancer. High protein diets
increase blood levels, which some researchers believe may contribute to certain forms of cancer.
Another negative effect of High Protein Diets is that it can cause nutritional deficiencies as well as
damage to the internal organs.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2012) Protein Retrieved from
http://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/everyone/basics/protein.html
N A. (2012) Importance of Amino Acids Retrieved from
http://www.muscleandstrength.com/articles/the-importance-of-amino-acids.html
USDA (2012) My Pyramid Plan Retrieved from
http://www.choosemyplate.gov/