All About The Functions Of Proteins In The Body
Do you know the functions of proteins in the body? These molecules, like other nutrients, are necessary for various vital processes, which is why people need to include them in their diet.
Proteins are made up of structural units called amino acids. You can compare amino acids with beads from a pearl necklace.
Some amino acids cannot be synthesized by the human body, which is why they are considered essential. There is no other way to obtain them than through the diet.
All about the functions of proteins in the body
Proteins are generally composed of molecules of 4 basic elements: carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen. In addition, they may also contain sulfur, iron, copper or other minerals. Proteins play a fundamental role in living things as they are macronutrients necessary for the body to function.
The functions of proteins are multifaceted and diverse, the main role of which is to aid in the formation of tissues and muscle mass. In fact, according to studies, protein intake is one of the basic components to build muscle mass.
However, the usefulness of proteins goes beyond that one characteristic. Below we will talk about the other functions of proteins.
Structure and plasticity
An important function of proteins in the body is to form cell structures. They repair tissues, provide support and impart elasticity and resistance. Here are two classic examples of this:
- Firstly, collagen, which is found in bones and tendons, among other things.
- Second, keratin, which is found in hair, skin and nails.
Regulation
Some hormones, such as insulin and glucagon, have a proteinaceous character. These two hormones ensure that the glucose concentration in the blood can be regulated. Another case is the hormone calcitonin, which is responsible for metabolizing calcium. In addition, there are proteins that control cell division and the expression of genes.
defense
Proteins help make immunoglobulins. These are antibodies that can protect the body against foreign substances. Some examples of this are:
- mucins: for example protect the mucous membranes and have a germicidal effect.
- fibrinogen and thrombin: contribute to the formation of blood clots and thus help to prevent major bleeding.
Homeostasis
Proteins also have the ability to keep the internal environment stable through a process called homeostasis (Spanish link). This ensures that the pH, acidity and osmotic balance of the body remain within normal ranges at all times.
Enzymes
Many proteins are enzymes, which means that they enable the body to react more quickly to stimuli. They can speed up this process due to their ability to interact with substrates. For example, there are enzymes that make food breakdown possible, such as:
- amylase
- lipase
- protease
Transportation
Another function of proteins in the body is that they help transport substances in body fluids, such as oxygen (via hemoglobin and myoglobin) and fats (via apoproteins).
On a cellular level you could say that they are channels and receptors that allow the entry and exit of the cell through the cell membranes for certain compounds.
Energy reserve
Proteins also form an energy reserve in case they need to be used as fuel. Although it is not optimal for the body to use them as such, it is possible if there are no or insufficient carbohydrates available in the body.
The different protein sources
The foods that provide proteins can be of animal or vegetable origin. However, they all differ in quality and the amino acids they contain.
Animal sources have a high biological value because they contain all the amino acids that are essential for the body. Some plant-based protein sources do not contain these essential amino acids.
According to scientific studies, when consuming proteins of plant origin, you should try to combine foods to achieve optimal quality. Otherwise you will always miss some important components. This does not apply to soybeans.
You can get high-quality proteins by eating:
- Red meat
- chicken and poultry
- Eggs
- dairy products
- legumes: especially soybeans, chickpeas and lentils
- nuts and seeds
Several types of scientific research (Spanish link) recommend consuming 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of ideal weight. However, this requirement depends on the daily needs of each individual. Populations that need an extra amount of protein, for example, include:
- pregnant women
- children
- Adolescents
- elderly
- sick
This requirement is different for top athletes, since the degree of physical activity they perform has a direct influence on the protein requirement. According to a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, elite athletes should consume at least 2 grams of protein every day.
What you need to know about the functions of proteins in the body
Thus, this nutrient is essential for many vital functions. For that reason, everyone should pay close attention to its consumption. As we mentioned above, high-quality proteins are most easily obtained through foods of animal origin.
Therefore, people following a vegetarian or vegan diet should consult a nutritionist. That way you can avoid deficient in essential proteins, which can cause problems.
As you have read, it is important to know something about the functions of proteins in the body. After all, these molecules aren’t just for making tissues.
They are also indispensable for their ability to influence multiple processes in the body. Our health depends in part on the intake of proteins, which is why it is essential to include them in our diet.
