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Nutrients Protein
Nutrients Protein
-are organic compounds composed of nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, along with a
variable side chain group.
-are needed for vital processes like the building of proteins and synthesis of hormones and
neurotransmitters.
Out of 20 amino acids that are body needs, only nine amino acids are classified as essential:
histidine
isoleucine
leucine
lysine
methionine
phenylalanine
threonine
tryptophan
valine
Unlike nonessential amino acids, essential amino acids can’t be made by your body and must be
obtained through your diet.
When you eat protein, it’s broken down into amino acids, which are then used to help your body
with various processes such as building muscle and regulating immune function.
The nine essential amino acids perform a number of important and varied jobs in your body:
3 Threonine is a principal part of structural proteins such as collagen and elastin, which
are important components of the skin and connective tissue thus it helps in the formation of
bones, cartilages, hair, teeth and nails. It also aids in the production of antibodies to strengthen
the immune system.
6 Leucine is a branched-chain amino acid that is critical for protein synthesis and muscle
repair. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels, stimulates wound healing and produces growth
hormones.
7 Isoleucine is the last of the three branched-chain amino acids, isoleucine is involved in
muscle metabolism and is heavily concentrated in muscle tissue. It is also important for immune
function, hemoglobin production and energy regulation.
8 Lysine plays major roles in protein synthesis, hormone and enzyme production and
production of collagen and elastin. It plays a key role in the absorption of calcium bu reducing the
amount of calcium being excreted in the urine.
Foods that contain all nine essential amino acids are referred to as complete proteins.
• Meat
• Seafood
• Poultry
• Eggs
• Dairy Products
Soy, quinoa and buckwheat are plant-based foods that contain all nine essential amino acids,
making them complete protein sources as well.