Protein Flashcards
Are Proteins Macronutrients or Micronutrients?
Macronutrients needed by all animals including humans
What are proteins made up of?
Individual “building blocks” called Amino acids
How many amino acids are there?
At least 20
What happens when our body digests protein?
They break it up into individual amino acids and build new protein molecules that our bodies can use
What are essential amino acids?
Amino acids that can’t be made by the body so they have to come ready made from the food we eat
How many essential amino acids do we need?
8 and at least 2 extra for children as they are growing
What are proteins that contain all essential amino acids called?
HBV (high biological value) proteins e.g meat
What are LBV proteins?
Low Biological Value Proteins that are missing one or more essential amino acids e.g beans
What is protein complimentary on?
When you eat a mixture of LBV Proteinsso that the body gets all the amino acids needed
What are the three main functions of proteins?
To make the body grow
To repair the body
To give the body energy
Name three important substances that are made of proteins and their function
Hormones- make you grow and reproduce
Enzymes- digest your food
Antibodies- help your immune system fight infection from bacteria and viruses
What are the main sources of protein?
Protein is found in animal foods- meat fish poultry milk cheese and egg
Also in plant food- beans peas lentils nuts and cereals
What are protein alternatives.
Manufactures products used as alternatives to meat.
Have high protein content and low fat content
Have little flavour but readily take up other flavours
For vegetarians
What are the effects of an excess of protein in the diet.
Too much nitrogen which is dangerous so is removed by body in urine . The liver and kidneys have to work harder which puts them under stress and could cause harm
What are the effects of a deficiency of protei
Kids won’t grow properly and may never reach their full height
May,one some hair
Skin and nails will be in poor condition
Easily develops infection
Unable to digest food properly
