Protein is one of the nutrients along with carbohydrate, fat, vitamins, minerals, and water. Protein is an essential nutrient. There is no life without protein and they are part of every cell, tissue, and organ in our bodies. These body proteins are constantly being broken down and replaced. The protein in the foods we eat is digested into amino acids that are later used to replace these proteins in our bodies.
Proteins are made up of amino acids which act as the building blocks. There are 20 different amino acids that join together to make all types of protein. Some of these amino acids can't be made by our bodies, so these are known as essential amino acids.
Failure to consume enough protein causes protein deficiency, a serious medical condition. People with protein deficiency experience fatigue and irritability as well as have symptoms such as loss of muscle mass, skin pigmentation, diarrhea, changes in the color or texture of hair, protruding belly, rashes and swelling.
Daily protein requirements differ by your age and sex. The Institute of Medicine recommends that young children receive 13 to 19 g of protein each day. Adult males should consume 56 g of protein daily, while adult females need 46 g per day.
While your body needs protein, excess protein can have adverse health effects also. Overconsumption can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Bone loss happens when calcium is taken from the bones to help carry out bodily functions. Calcium is needed to process proteins, and if there is not enough calcium present in the body, it is taken from the bones. Your kidneys are responsible for filtering a number of substances, including