2024-10-16 · NutriFreaks
Protein makes up about 15-20% of the human body, playing a critical role in maintaining overall health. Next to water, protein is the most abundant component in the body. For example, a 70 kg person has approximately 10.5 to 14 kg of protein in their body.
Proteins are composed of smaller molecules called amino acids. While the body can synthesize many amino acids, it cannot produce nine of them, known as essential amino acids. These must be obtained through dietary sources such as eggs, dairy products, and meat, which contain all nine essential amino acids.
Dietary protein is broken down into amino acids by digestive enzymes in the stomach and small intestine. These amino acids are then absorbed into the bloodstream and transported throughout the body. Beyond building and repairing muscles, proteins are crucial for the formation of muscle tendons, enzymes, hormones, and immune functions, such as antibody production.
In the following sections, we will cover:
- How much protein should we consume per day?
- Are we consuming enough protein daily?
- What happens if we don’t get enough protein for a long time?
- How can we adjust our diet to meet protein requirements?