Protein Highley regarded in the body fitness and nutrition community
Proteins, to which there are many forms, are key to the growth, development and maintenance of muscle cells. Proteins are built of amino acids, of which 22 exist – 14 non essential (can be made by the body) and 8 essential (cannot be made by the body). Protein is found in every cell, muscle and tissue within the human body and is key in the production of antibodies, protecting us from illness and infection.
Proteins are long chains of amino acids, chemical compounds containing carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and sometimes sulphur. When proteins enter the body the amino acids are broken down in the stomach during digestion by enzymes known as ‘proteases’ into smaller ‘polypeptides’ ready for utilisation. The now much smaller ‘polypeptides’ then re-group to form new proteins which can then be used by the body. Without all 22 amino acids present new proteins will not form correctly therefore it is vital to eat a variety of foods including, meat, cheese, fish and pulses which all contain a wide range and high number of amino acids.
