In: Biology
Discuss the importance of protein in our diets.
IMPORTANCE OF PROTEINS IN OUR DIET
1. Growth and maintenance
Proteins are the building blocks of bones, muscles, skin and cartilage. Proteins help in repair and build body’s tissues. The amount of protein required depends on the body activity and health.
2. Helps in metabolic reactions of the body
Enzymes are basically proteins which help in carrying out various metabolic functions in our body like digestion, muscle contraction.
3. Messengers in form of hormones
Some proteins are hormones which help in communication between the cells. Like, insulin, glucagon and ADH. These help in transmitting information between cells, tissues and organs.
4. Providing structure to the body components
Some fibrous proteins like keratin, elastin, collagen help in providing shape to various parts of the body.
Keratin gives structure to skin, nails and hair.
Collagen gives structure to bones, tendons and ligaments.
5. Provide immunity to body
Proteins help in forming antibodies which provides immunity to the body. Antibodies protect the body from harmful agents.
6. Provides energy to the body under certain conditions
Proteins are important source of energy. Under normal conditions, very less amount of energy is provided by proteins. While fasting, muscle proteins so as to provide energy to the body.