|
Proteins |
|
Proteins are described as essential and nonessential proteins or amino acids. The human body requires approximately 20 amino acids for the synthesis of its proteins. Protein is the main component of muscles, organs, and glands. Every living cell and all body fluids, except bile and urine, contain protein. The cells of muscles, tendons, and ligaments are maintained with protein. Children and adolescents require protein for growth and development.
The body can make only 13 of the amino acids -- these are known as the nonessential amino acids. They are called non-essential because the body can make them and does not need to get them from the diet. There are 9 essential amino acids that are obtained only from food, and not made in the body.
If the protein in a food supplies enough of the essential amino acids, it is called a complete protein. If the protein of a food does not supply all the essential amino acids, it is called an incomplete protein.
All meat and other animal products are sources of complete proteins. These include beef, lamb, pork, poultry, fish, shellfish , eggs, milk, and milk products. Whey protein, found in our PaleoMeal and PaleoBars, provides a complete, very high quality source of protein. Protein in foods (such as nuts, grains, fruits, and vegetables) are either low, incomplete protein or lack one of the essential amino acids.These food sources are considered incomplete proteins.
For optimum protein intake, about 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight ( approximately 9 grams per 20 lbs. of body weight) per day, will supply ample protein nutrition for most individuals. |
|
