Question

What is protein balance, and why is it important to understand this concept in health and recovery.

Answer 1

protein balance

Equilibrium between protein intake and anabolism, and protein catabolism and elimination of nitrogenous products. Protein consists of a chain of amino acids bonded together. Your body is constantly breaking down protein molecules into their individual amino acids, which are then used to build or synthesize new proteins. The balance between protein breakdown and buildup is referred to as protein turnover. Nitrogen is a fundamental component of amino acids, which are the molecular building blocks of protein. Therefore, measuring nitrogen inputs and losses can be used to study protein metabolism. Positive nitrogen balance is associated with periods of growth, hypothyroidism, tissue repair, and pregnancy.