Proteins
From ChildWiki.com
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[edit] What is Protein?
The word proteins comes from the Greek, proteinus, meaning first. Proteins make up the composition of all living cells, they take part in forming new cells and intervene in the development of all essential and vital organic processes. Also, they form various hormones, participate in forming antibodies, aid in transforming toxins in the body into harmless substances. They also function as a transportation method in the body, they divide water and substances dissolved in water, and they can also be burned by the body, to gain energy. 1 gram of proteins releases 4 calories.
[edit] Why is Protein Important?
The lack of proteins in the daily diet can lead to chronic malnutrition, various diseases, the tiredness of nervous cells, growth retardation in children, the cessation of hormone production, decreases the body’s muscle mass, causes anemia, dry skin, fragile nails, and baldness.
At the same time, too much protein is also harmful. An excess of proteins in the daily diet can lead to overloading the body with protein metabolic products, increasing putrefaction in the intestines, and to overworking the liver and kidneys.
[edit] Sources of Protein
Rich sources of proteins are: meat (20%), fish (18%), eggs (12.7%), cow cheese (18%), soy (35%), beans (21%), nuts (18%), bread (8%), and pasta (11%).
A healthy diet recommends eating 1 gram of protein for each body kilogram (2.3 lbs) in 14 hours. Thus, a person that weights 70 kilograms (154 lbs) needs a daily intake of at least 70 grams of protein- no less than 40 grams. If the daily quantity is below this value, the body will cannibalize the proteins in its tissues.
In the growth period, children need 2 grams per each kilogram, pregnant women 1.5 grams, and breastfeeding mothers 2 grams per kilogram. For an active person, protein must be 10-15% of the total calories eaten in a day.
