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What are
proteins:
the building blocks of life
and nutrition

Proteins are organic molecules composed of amino acids that are essential for life. They are composed of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen and, in some cases, sulfur.

These elements join together to form chains of amino acids, the true structural units of proteins.

 

The name itself is derived from the Greek prôtos, meaning "first" or "primary"-not surprisingly, proteins play a vital role in every living organism. They contribute to structural integrity, enzyme activity, hormone production, immune defense and the transport of oxygen and nutrients. For this reason, they are often described as the building blocks of life. 

Why do we need proteins

Proteins are essential for tissue growth and maintenance, enzyme and hormone production, immune defense, and cell regeneration. Our bodies take them in through protein foods, but can also produce some on their own using amino acids.

However, not all amino acids can be synthesized internally: some must be taken in through the diet in order for the body to properly build new proteins.

Essential and nonessential amino acids
There are 20 types of amino acids in the human body that form proteins. They fall into two categories: nonessential amino acids, which the body can synthesize on its own, and essential amino acids, which must be introduced through the diet because the body cannot produce them on its own.

An example of nonessential amino acids are proline and glycine, which are useful for collagen production. In contrast, essential amino acids include lysine, which is involved in muscle development and collagen production; tryptophan, which contributes to mood regulation; and isoleucine, which is important for energy production in muscles.

The balanced presence of all nine essential amino acids defines a complete or "noble" protein, also called high biological value.
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Where protein is found: animal and plant sources
Dietary protein is found in numerous foods of animal and plant origin.
The richest sources of complete protein are meat, fish, eggs, and milk and dairy products, which contain all nine essential amino acids and provide a high-quality protein supply.

Plant foods, such as legumes, cereals, and nuts, are also excellent sources of protein. However, only some varieties, for example soybeans, possess a complete amino acid profile. In other cases, it is useful to combine different plant sources, e.g., legumes and cereals, to achieve a balanced protein intake.
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