The Significance of Proteins in Our Diet
Have you ever asked yourself, why is it that protein is indispensable for your health? Why is it that dietitians ask us to include at least 5-10% proteins in our daily diet? The first point to bear in mind is that, proteins form the basic material of all our living cells. In adults, one may note, proteins contribute to at least 16%of your total body weight.
Proteins comprise of single units called amino acids. They are linked up in a variety of groupings in our body. They are broken down, through digestion, and are sent to areas where they are required through the blood stream. Some proteins are made within our body, while others need to be made available through our diet.
They contribute to our growth, and are a major component of our body tissues, skin, and also the muscles. They also add to the production of enzymes and hemoglobin in our body.
Proteins are the building blocks for growing children. Teenagers need them more than adults. Adults too need them to ensure continual repairing of their body cells. Lack of proteins can result in deficiencies in children, causing stunt growth, anemia, lower immunity and fatigue.
Excessive proteins are also harmful, it can be hazardous for your kidneys, and may cause osteoporosis too.
People indulging in rigorous exercise require proteins in large amounts. If you exercise painstakingly, you lose out lots of proteins. Thus, your meal following your exercises must replace the lost proteins.
Dairy products are the best source of protein.
If you are a vegetarian, you need a variety of grains and pulses. The quality of protein supplied by every variety is important .Tofu, which is found in soya, peanuts, rice, oatmeal, and whole wheat bread is essential in our diet.
Non-vegetarians have plenty to choose from. Mutton, beef, eggs, fish are all rich in proteins. But, unlike vegetables these have their drawbacks too; they contain lots of saturated fats, and are low in fibre.
