About

There are a large number of benefits of protein, it is an important nutrient for the body. These biochemical compounds are made up of small molecules called amino acids. There are about 20 types of amino acids found in the body which combine to form different types of proteins.

Proteins have primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary structures. The primary structure is a chain of amino acids. The secondary structure consists of alpha helix and beta plate. Tertiary structure is the three-dimensional folding of a protein molecule. The quaternary structure is made up of several polypeptide chains.

Functions of protien

Structural

– formation of muscles, skin, hair, nails etc.

Immunity

– making antibodies and immunoglobulin’s.

Biological molecules

– making hormones, enzymes that control various functions.

Transportation

– Plasma proteins carry oxygen and other substances in the blood.

Protein Source:

Major protein source are meat, fish, eggs, milk, curd, cheese, pulses, soybean, almonds, walnuts etc. Proteins are also found in plants but some essential amino acids are in less quantity.

Protein deficiency can cause problems like growth restriction, muscle degradation, reduced immunity, delayed wound healing etc. Therefore it is important to take a protein-rich diet in the quantity prescribed by experts.

Following are the benefits of protein:

Here are some detailed description of benefits of protein as follows

Muscle building and repair:

Muscle building and repair is possible one of the possible main benefits of protein as it happens only in it’s presence. Amino acids, the small components of protein, provide the building blocks of muscle cells. Protein also compensates for the loss of muscles during exercise and physical activities. Protein not only helps in increasing the size of muscles but also maintains their strength and power. Therefore it is very important to consume an adequate protein diet for muscle growth and repair.

Strengthening the immune system:

Protein contributes to making important components of the immune system such as antibodies, immune cells and cytokines. These components help the body fight various infections and diseases. Protein also aids in the healing of wounds and injuries as it helps in the formation of new cells and tissues. Additionally, a protein-rich diet also provides the energy needed for immune cells.

Help in wound healing:

Protein plays an important role in the wound healing process. When a wound occurs, the body forms new tissue and blood vessels at that site. This manufacturing process requires proteins. Amino acids made from proteins are helpful in the formation of new cells and proteins. Additionally, the protein also contributes to reducing inflammation and infection at the wound site. Therefore, taking adequate protein rich diet is helpful in quick healing and healing of wounds.

Strength of bones and teeth:

Bones and teeth are made of protein. Proteins such as collagen are a major component of bone structure. Apart from this, protein also plays an important role in the growth and reconstruction of bones. Proteins like enamel and dentin are also found in teeth which help in maintaining their strength. Additionally, protein also increases the absorption of calcium and other minerals, which are needed to maintain strong bones and teeth.

Weight management:

The benefits of protein can be seen in its helpfulness in weight management. It not only prevents unnecessary eating by giving a feeling of satiety for a longer period of time, but it also helps in burning calories by increasing the metabolic rate. Additionally, protein preserves muscle mass while losing weight and helps appetite control mechanisms function properly, which improves fat burning. Therefore, the benefits of protein diet play an important role in reducing weight and maintaining a healthy body.

Improves brain health:

Another known fact among list of benefits of protein it is an essential nutrient for proper brain formation and functioning. Protein helps create neurotransmitters that facilitate message transmission between different parts of the brain. Additionally, it also provides a source of energy for the brain. Certain proteins also help form and repair nerve cells in the brain. Nutritional deficiency, including protein, is a major factor in cognitive decline in adults and the elderly. Therefore, consuming an adequate protein diet is helpful in maintaining brain health and improving memory, concentration and other cognitive functions even as we age. Therefore, consuming protein rich food is beneficial for the brain.

Hormone Balance:

There are numerous benefits of protein that play an important role in maintaining hormone balance in the body. It is helpful in the process of making hormones because amino acids, which are small molecules of proteins, are essential for making various hormones like steroid hormones, thyroid hormones, insulin etc. In addition, proteins also help regulate their effects by binding with hormone receptors, just as sex hormone binding globulin influences the effects of testosterone. Protein also improves insulin sensitivity and contributes to hormonal food regulation by influencing levels of leptin, ghrelin and cortisol, the hormones that control appetite and food consumption. Thus an adequate protein-rich diet is extremely important to maintain hormonal balance.

Conclusion

Benefits of protein is a very important nutrient for the body. It not only aids in building and repairing muscles, bones, skin and hair, but also contributes to the smooth functioning of the immune system, hormone levels and brain functions. Protein also plays an important role in weight management and wound healing. Therefore, people of all ages should include adequate amount of protein-rich food like meat, eggs, milk, curd, pulses etc. in their daily diet. With this, not only physical and mental health can be maintained, but various diseases can also be avoided. Therefore, protein is a very important ingredient in a balanced and nutritious diet.