Protein: The most important Nutrient of our body after Water

Protein is the second most important nutrient for our body after water.
What is protein?
Protein is an important constituent of all the tissues and cells of our body, primarily found in muscle and other vital body fluids etc. Protein forms the basic chemical unit of living organisms and is essential for nutrition, growth and repair. The word Protein has originated from the Greek word “Protos’s” which means to come first. We know that our body is composed of-
# 60% of the human body constitutes of water and 40% is dry matter.
# 40% of body’s dry matter is protein, the rest being fats, carbohydrates, vitamins.
Where Protein is found in the Body?
Protein is found everywhere in our body. It is found in every single cell, tissue, muscle, bone, liver, intestines, kidneys, eyes, skin, hair, nails, in our immune system. Enzymes and even haemoglobin is a protein.
Role of Protein:
Protein is the basic building block of the human body.
# It repairs the loss due to wear and tear.
# It helps to build immunity.

Protein is to human body what fuel is to car. Without it body can’t function.
Do we need Protein Everyday?
Our body requires protein everyday, a small amount of protein is lost through the normal metabolic process. Our body cannot store protein & hence there is need to replenish the same everyday, otherwise it could lead to loss muscle mass causing physical weakness, fatigue and weakened immune system.

Some Imporatnt Facts:

1. An adult needs 1 gm of Prtein per kg of body weight.

2. A growing child around 7-10 years would need 41 gms of protein.
Types of Protein:
Complete Protein: Protein in foods that contain all of the 9 essential amino acids in sufficient quantity and ratio to meet the body’s needs are called complete protein. Animal sources are rich in complete protein.
Incomplete Protein: Protein’s in food that does not contain sufficient amounts of 1 or more of the 9 essential amino acids is referred to as incomplete protein. Generally , protein from plant/vegetable sources are incomplete, but make a valuable contribution to the total dietary protein.

Does Protein help in weight Gain or weight Loss? There is a perception that protein intake results in weight gain. Fact is, in overweight and obese people, a high protein intake actually aids weight loss as it helps to burn out excess fat stored in the body. when energy producing nutrients like fats and carbohydrates are taken in controlled portions with high protein intake, body fat stored breakdown to meet energy requirements with gaining weight.

Posted in tips beautiful skkin and more