All the cells present in the body are composed of proteins. A protein is a complex nitrogenous substance which accounts for over 50% of the organic material in the body. It comes from the Greek word proteios which basically means ‘of great importance.’ Protein is considered to be a ‘macronutrient,’ which means that in order to remain physically fit, a huge amount of protein must be taken in on a daily basis. Unlike the other macronutrients such as carbohydrate and fat, the human body is not capable of storing proteins. Therefore, when an individual’s protein value is low, the only possible way to replenish and meet the body’s desired amount is by harnessing it through food intake.
Here is why you should incorporate protein in your diet:
- Proteins have the capacity to help burn the excess fats away and maintain a healthy weight. The daily intake of protein in a sufficient amount could actually be the key factor in maintaining and preserving muscles while burning fat.
- Incorporating protein in the diet could help enrich a person’s daily performance.
- Proteins are the important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood.
- Protein is one of the pre-requisite nutrients in order to be healthy. The human body is composed of an estimated number of 100,000 varying kinds of proteins, each of which has a specific physiological function. In order to attain a well-balanced nutrition, protein must always be included in the diet. There is a wide variety of food sources which are rich in proteins such as meat, milk, fish, soy, eggs, beans, and legumes. When foods containing proteins are digested, traces of amino acids are produced. Amino acids are the monomers of proteins. In simpler terms, these are the building blocks of proteins.
- Proteins execute most of the tasks for the body to efficiently function. They play a crucial role in nearly all biological process and they are an absolute must in sustaining life.
- Protein is responsible for building and repairing damaged tissues.
- Proteins are also required in order to produce a wide array of hormones and other body chemicals. Enzymes, which are considered to be the catalysts of biological reactions, are mostly proteins.
- The growth and development of a person can be enhanced with proteins.
- Proteins facilitate a wide scope of biological functions such as transport and storage of important substances, coordinated motion, mechanical support and protection against diseases.
There is no shortage of reasons as to why protein is vital to your diet. So make sure you’re getting the right amount of protein to suffice your daily activities.