Interesting Benefits Of Protein Consumption

What are proteins?

Proteins are defined as a group of biological compounds which are found in every living cell, tissue and organ of the body. It's present in the body as antibodies, enzymes, hormones and many more. Proteins take part in every cell-mediated process which occurs in the body and are responsible for the formation, repair, protection and regulation of the body. When needed, it can also become an energy provider for the body when carbohydrates are not accessible or available.

They're involved in a range of processes within living beings which includes molecular transportation from one location to another, DNA replication, coordination and communication within the cells as well as catalysis of enzymes.

Amino acids

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein products. The breakdown of protein into amino acids is important since the latter are used by the body to aid in tissue repair, breaking down of other food products and for overall growth.

There exist essential amino acids (which can't be produced by the body and must therefore be provided through the diet), non-essential amino acids (these are formed by the body either from the breakdown of proteins in the body or breakdown of the essential amino acids) and conditional amino acids (those that are only essential during times of stress or illness). 

Types of proteins

The types of proteins which are found can be divided into 3 groups.

• Globular proteins are found in water environments and function as enzymes and antibodies.
• Membranous proteins are found in the cellular membrane and their function consists of membrane transport and signaling. 
• Fibrous proteins are structured proteins which are found in areas such as the bones, muscles, ligaments as well as keratin (found in hair and nails) and collagen (present in skin).

Dietary sources of proteins

Chicken eggs have the most protein available per serving size. 1 large egg contains 6 grams of protein which is the equivalent of 30 grams of cooked meat. Organic beef, which is high in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), not only helps build muscle but it also helps to metabolize fat faster.

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Fish such as herring, salmon and tuna are not only high in essential amino acids but also essential fatty acids such as omega-3. Omega-3 helps to promote cardiovascular and neurological health but also aids in muscle tissue repair, recovery and maintenance.

Other examples of protein containing meats include poultry (chicken, turkey and duck), pork and mutton (trimmed of fat).

Nuts are also a very good source of protein and they include unsalted peanuts or cashews, raw almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, walnuts, macadamia nuts, pine nuts and brazil nuts. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds are also very good protein alternatives. Legumes are also high in protein and include kidney beans, pinto beans, split peas and garbanzo beans.

Health Benefits Of Proteins

Muscular health

Proteins play a very important role in contraction of muscles and muscle coordination. They are found in muscle tissue in the form of microfilaments which provide structure to the muscle and muscle growth depends on the availability and quality of proteins in the body.

Nerve signaling

Protein complexes make up the receptor sites present in the nervous system. Without these proteins, transmission of nerve signals would be inadequate. The central nervous system wouldn't be properly regulated and the body wouldn't be able to function properly. 

Immune defense

Proteins are very important in the production of antibodies which are needed to protect the body against invading microorganisms. The antibodies which are produced will depend on the organism which is causing the immune response, and the quality of the antibody will depend on the quality of the proteins used to make it.

Hormones and enzymes

Hormones such as glucagon, insulin and growth hormone are made from amino acids and they play an important role in many functions which are operating in the body.

Enzymes are protein catalysts and are involved in the reactions and biochemical processes which occur in the body. The quality of the proteins utilized to make these enzymes will determine the speed and rate that these enzymes will work. The poorer the quality of the protein, the slower the rate of the biochemical reactions will be which will affect the functioning of the body.

Energy source

Proteins can act as an energy source for the body under certain situations. For example, when there's consumption of a diet where carbohydrates are either excluded or used minimally, then the body switches over to using its own functional proteins in order to compensate for scenario. 

As fat cells are utilized to release glucose, proteins are used when this source is no longer available. Since the body doesn't store extra protein in the same way glucose is, then muscle proteins and enzymes are broken down to supply the protein.

Molecular transportation

Proteins, such as hemoglobin, are involved in the important function of transporting substances, in this case oxygen, to various parts of the body. Other proteins are also responsible for storing certain substances in parts of the body.

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Cell and tissue regeneration

Proteins are involved in the manufacturing of tissue such as skin, hair and nails and a constant supply of amino acids are needed to maintain this function. Cells in the digestive system, blood and skin also only last a few weeks before they start to die off. A persistent supply of amino acids are also needed here to maintain proper and healthy functions of these systems.

Therefore, the more amino acids are available, the more cells can be produced at an adequate rate in order to maintain a healthy body.

Joint support

The protein collagen (which is found in the skin and bones) helps to provide mechanical support to the cells. This collagen also provides support for the joints, when heavy weights are exerted on them, in order to keep them strong and healthy and to prevent any injuries.