Nutrition 1010 Proteins Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Why are amino acids called the 'building blocks' of protein?

Because 20 different amino acids make up all proteins. There are 9 essential and 11 nonessential.

What is the difference between essential and nonessential amino acids? How many amino acids are in each group? What food groups contain essential amino acids?

9 essential amino acids must be eaten; 11 nonessential are synthesized in the body.

Name all of the different protein sources in our food supply.

Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, soy, nuts, beans, seeds, whole grains, vegetables.

What is unique about animal sources of protein versus plant sources?

Animal products generally contain all 9 essential amino acids. Signup and view all the answers

Define 'limiting amino acid'.

When one amino acid is lacking in the body and causes protein synthesis to stall. Signup and view all the answers

What are complementary proteins?

When 2 incomplete proteins together contain all 9 amino acids. Signup and view all the answers

What are the major roles for proteins in our bodies?

Building blocks of body components, fluid balance maintenance, immune function, forming glucose, energy yielding, contributing to satiety. Signup and view all the answers

When proteins are used to produce energy in our bodies, what waste product is produced?

Glucose; Edema is produced as wasted muscle tissue. Signup and view all the answers

Define 'protein turnover'. Why is it important in the body?

Protein structures are constantly degraded and synthesized; amino acids are recycled. Signup and view all the answers

Understand the process of protein digestion & absorption.

Denaturation, digestion in stomach, digestion in small intestine, protein is absorbed. Signup and view all the answers

What is the basic recommendation for protein intake for a healthy adult?

About 0.8 gm of protein per kg of body weight. 56 grams for men and 46 grams for women. Signup and view all the answers

What is protein balance? Under what circumstances is someone in positive, negative, or neutral protein balance?

Protein balance is when someone's body needs and uses more or less protein. Positive during growth, pregnancy, recovery, or for athletes; equilibrium for healthy adults; negative for older people. Signup and view all the answers

How does athletic training affect protein needs?

Increases exponentially, about 2 times (about 1.7 gm per kg). Signup and view all the answers

What are the risks of consuming excess protein?

Colon cancer, it's hard on the kidneys, calcium loss. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Proteins Overview

Proteins are composed of 20 amino acids, categorized into 9 essential (must be consumed) and 11 nonessential (synthesized by the body).

Essential vs. Nonessential Amino Acids

Essential Amino Acids: 9 that must be ingested.
Nonessential Amino Acids: 11 that the body can produce.
Essential amino acids are primarily found in animal products, though some plant sources like soy also provide them.

Protein Sources

Major sources include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, soy, nuts, beans, seeds, whole grains, and vegetables.
Animal proteins typically contain all 9 essential amino acids (complete proteins), while most plant proteins are incomplete, lacking one or more essential amino acids.

Limiting Amino Acid

A limiting amino acid is the one that limits protein synthesis due to its absence, potentially halting the process.

Complementary Proteins

Combinations of two incomplete proteins can provide all essential amino acids.
Examples include grains with legumes, legumes with nuts, nuts with vegetables, and vegetables with grains.

Functions of Proteins

Proteins serve various functions: structural components, fluid balance, immune response, energy production, satiety contribution, and glucose formation.

Energy Production from Proteins

When proteins are metabolized for energy, they produce waste products, including glucose and may lead to muscle tissue degradation resulting in edema.

Protein Turnover

Protein turnover is a continuously occurring process where proteins are broken down and synthesized, allowing for recycling of amino acids, crucial for maintaining body functions.

Proteins Digesting and Absorption

Digestion starts with denaturation, followed by enzymatic breakdown in the stomach and small intestine before absorption into the bloodstream.

Protein Intake Recommendations

Recommended protein intake is approximately 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight: 56 grams/day for men and 46 grams/day for women.

Protein Balance

Refers to the relationship between protein intake and the body's needs.
Positive Protein Balance: occurs during growth, pregnancy, recovery from injury, or for athletes.
Neutral Protein Balance: achieved by healthy adults meeting nutritional needs.
Negative Protein Balance: often seen in older adults who may not meet protein requirements.

Athletic Training and Protein Needs

Athletes have significantly higher protein requirements, around 1.7 grams per kg body weight, nearly double the general recommendation.

Risks of Excess Protein

Consuming too much protein may increase the risk of colon cancer, strain kidney function, and lead to calcium loss.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the fundamental concepts of proteins, specifically focusing on amino acids. This quiz covers essential and nonessential amino acids, their roles, and the food sources that provide them. Perfect for students looking to deepen their understanding of nutrition.