Why do we need Protein?

Protein is one of the most essential nutrients without which the proper functioning of our body is severely hampered. The literal meaning of protein is ‘holding the first place`, as the word has its origin in the Greek language. Proteins provide the essential energy to our body and help in the building up and replacement of worn out muscle tissues, nerves and bones. It also acts as one of the foremost ingredients to produce hormones and enzymes for our body. It is an interesting fact that all hormones in our body are proteins.

Proteins are produced and made up of amino acids which constitute 75% of the human body. There are around 20 types of amino acids which team up to produce proteins. Some amino acids produced within our bodies are called non- essential amino acids, whereas. the amino acids which we get through our diet are known as essential amino acids. Proteins provide the structure to our cells and facilitate their growth and replacement regularly. They are also actively involved in the manufacture of antibodies in our body, which enhances our immunity towards infections, allergies, harmful bacteria and toxins etc.

Some of the important proteins are keratin and collagen which maintain the health of the hair and skin; hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood; insulin, which regulates the body’s metabolism; thrombin, which specifically ensures that there is proper blood clotting. It is a common misconception that excess quantity of protein would provide more energy and muscle power whereas excessive protein gets converted into extra calories which gets broken down into sugar and ends up as fat, not energy. According to the prevalent criteria, it is recommended that an average person’s intake of protein should be 1gm/1kg of the body weight; for example, a 50 kg person should consume at least 50gm of proteins in a day.

It is very important to carefully monitor the consumption of proteins in our diet, because both excessive as well as inadequate intake can lead to various health problems and diseases. Protein taken in more than the permissible limits can lead to osteoporosis, arthritis and damage to the kidneys , whereas, a low intake of protein leads to low energy levels and stamina, poorer immunity to diseases, depression and prolonged healing of wounds. The protein in our daily diet can be sourced either from animal meat or the richer and abundant sources like milk, cheese, eggs etc.

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