Protein – All In One Food Group With Hormones, Enzymes, Antibodies, Transportation, Structural, Contractile Functions
Proteins are the build and repair blocks of life. The process continues till our last breath. It has a unique and amazing structure and is a biological polymer consisting of more than one polypeptide chain. It is built on a foundation of 20 unique amino acids, which are connected by peptide bonds. Cell’s day-to-day functions are carried out by them. The protein functions are the synthesis of nucleotides and their assembly, cell movement, energy generation, absorption of nutrients, and to generate nucleic acids. RNA and DNA are not much of help when it comes to real cell work. Proteins get their hands dirty and do the work.
The unique feature of protein is that it is a powerhouse food and nutrient. It wears many hats and roles like hormones, enzymes, antibodies, structural, contractile and transportation. Hormones are body’s messaging and control system. Body functions regulation and metabolism are done by thyroxine, insulin, glucagon, and oxytocin hormone. Chemical reactions process speed-up and prevention of genetic disorders like Galactosemia and Phenylketonuria (PKU) are done by enzymes. Antibodies hunt, fight and destroy foreign agents in the body called antigens, resulting in a boost to the immune function.
The building blocks of tendons, ligaments are elastin and collagen which are structural proteins They also provide support. Keratin is for hair strengthening and coating. The driving force behind muscle contraction is provided by contractile proteins myosin and actin. It is vital to the heartbeat, lungs for respiratory function, and bowels for digestion. Molecule movement is vital to the human body and transport protein is responsible for it. Hemoglobin transports oxygen to and from the cells, bloodstream, and lungs. Fluid and acid-base balance are controlled by proteins.
The percentage of protein in the human body is close to 16%. Taking it only in your diet is a strict NO! Taking excess protein on the assumption that you will become super strong and immortal is a myth and is very harmful to the body and could lead to kidney failure. The body requires only a certain amount and that should be the limit of intake. A body without protein is like fish without water, hence have the right amount of protein in your diet to lead a Healthy Long Life.