Protein - Introduction

Question 1

Greek meaning

Answer 1

In Greek, protein means “of first importance, highlighting that proteins are the building blocks of life.

Question 2

Discovery

Answer 2

Proteins were first discovered in 1839 by the Chemist Gerhard Mulder.

Question 3

Bodyweight percentage

Answer 3

• Protein accounts for about 17% of body weight.

Question 4

Protein synthesis in cells

Answer 4

• It is estimated that a typical human cell is required to synthesise approx. 10,000 different proteins.

Question 5

Weight-loss

Answer 5

• In recent years, protein and high protein diets have been prized for their use in weight loss efforts, increasing satiety and supporting muscle mass gains.
• However, high animal protein diets increase the risk of various diseases and are associated with a shortened life expectancy.

Question 6

Associations with meat

Answer 6

• In the 19th century protein become synonymous with meat, and this connection has largely remained since. Historically, the wealthy would eat meat and the poor would eat staple plant foods.
• There is a widely held belief that meat = strength. This is simply not true and we now understand how powerful plant protein actually is.