7 Protein Fast Facts

Proteins are found in all living cells and are necessary for the proper functioning of organisms. They are essential for the growth and repair of tissue and are found in meats, animal products and legumes.

Without adequate amounts of protein, the body’s cells die or it starts to break down muscle and tissue to get the protein it needs. Inadequate protein levels can compromise your health and affect the body’s ability to function optimally. The recommended daily allowance for protein is 58-63 grams of protein a day for adult men and 46-50 grams a day for adult women.

Here are a few useful facts about protein:

1. Proteins are made up of amino acids that are joined together in a chain-like structure.

2. Humans protein is made up of 22 different amino acids, 13 of which are produced by the body. The other 9 amino acids are defined as essential amino acids as they can only be obtained from food.

3. A complete protein is a food that contains all 9 essential amino acids and can often be found in meats, fish, eggs, milk and cheese.

4. Plant-based proteins are often deficient in one or more essential amino acids, making them an incomplete protein. As long as you eat a balanced diet, you need not worry about getting all essential amino acids if you are on a vegetarian diet.

5. One gram of protein is equal to 4 calories.

6. A biological value (BV) is a measurement of protein used to express the quality and efficiency that the protein can be used by the body. Eggs are considered the highest quality protein (second only to mother’s milk) as nearly all the nitrogen from its amino acids can be utilized by the body.

7. Excess protein is stored as fat as the body cannot hold onto extra protein.