The functions of proteins are so numerous, that it would require many blog posts to sufficiently cover them all. Here is a shortlist of some of the most important functions they perform.
- Proteins contribute to cell growth, maintenance and repair.
Our bodies are constantly regenerating its cells. Each organ has its own cell life cycle.
- Proteins act as enzymes and hormones.
Proteins perform the very important role of facilitating chemical reactions that encourage growth, development and maintaining homeostasis.
- Proteins help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
Proteins naturally attract fluids; so they assist in maintaining the proper fluid levels and electrolyte balance outside and the inside of a cell.
- Proteins boost the immune system.
I’m sure everyone has heard the word antibodies, considering the challenge that we are facing today. Antibodies are proteins. “If we do not consume enough protein, our resistance to illnesses and disease is weakened.”
- Proteins serve as an energy source.
It is not the ideal energy source for the body, but in a starvation situation, the body will pull proteins from body organs and send it to the brain. It is important to consume an adequate amount of protein so that the body won’t resort to the vital organs for it.
- Proteins assist in the transport and storage of nutrients.
Proteins also act as taxis for other nutrients as they hitch a ride to get from one organ to the next.
Those who diet and those who body build can both run the risk of having too little or too much protein in the diet at a given time. It is important o be aware of the recommended protein intakes. You may be surprised at how much or how little protein you actually need…
| Group | Protein Intake | ||
| Sedentary adults | 0.8 | ||
| Nonvegetarian endurance athletes | 1.2-1.4 | ||
| Nonvegetarian strength athletes | 1.2-1.7 | ||
| Vegetarian endurance athletes | 1.3-1.5 | ||
| Vegetarian strength athletes | 1.3-1.8 |
* Multiply weight in lbs by the number in the “Protein Intake” column.
Too Much of A Good Thing?
We talked about what the body does in instances when protein is not being provided through regular intake. Now lets look at some of the conditions that will develop when too much protein is taken in.
- May contribute to higher blood cholesterol levels. This observation seems to correlate to animal protein and the saturated fats found in them.
- Contributes to bone loss. “ A recent systematic review of the literature concluded that there is no evidence to support the contention that high-protein diets lead to bone loss, except in people consuming inadequate calcium.”
- Increases the risk of kidney disease. Research suggests that those with diabetes may be more susceptible to kidney disease, since they require a higher amount of protein than those who don’t have diabetes. They have a finer line walk since it is recommended that they up their intake, but not too much.
Reference:
Thompson, J., & Manore, M. (2018). Nutrition: an applied approach. New York, NY: Pearson.
The Perfect Protein: The Fish Lover’s Guide to Saving the Oceans and Feeding the World
By: Andy Sharpless & Suzannah Evans
Foreword By : Bill Clinton
Amazon Rating
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