Proteins Do Not Only Occur in Eggs

An important class of nutrients we take along with the food we eat every day are the proteins. Already the name indicates the importance of this class of foods. protein is derived from the Greek word for being in first place.

Where Can You Find Proteins?

Protein is a major component of the human and animal body. Therefore, meat and fish contain much protein. Other sources of animal protein are milk and milk products, egg white and egg yolk.

Not only animal products, but also many vegetable products contain proteins. The most important sources of vegetable protein are legumes (soy, beans, peas), potatoes, maize, rice, cereals, bread and pasta.

What Do We Need Proteins For?

EProtein is the most important building substance of our body. We need proteins as building blocks for the formation and the renewal of body protein, cells and tissues. No other nutrient component can take over that function. That is why protein is so important for our nutrition.

In addition, proteins can be used for the generation of energy as well. 1 gram of protein supplies approx. 4 kilocalories, but this way of utilising protein plays only a minor role. Fats and carbohydrates are more important sources of energy.

What Kinds of Proteins Are There in Our Bodies?

The structure proteins like collagen, which forms the connective tissue (skin, cartilage, tendons, etc.) and keratin, which is the main structural element in hair, nails and horn, are very important.

Muscles contain special proteins, which enable the contraction of the muscle and hence movement.

Other proteins are responsible for transportation (for example the blood pigment haemoglobin, which transports oxygen in the blood) or protection (Proteins are responsible for clotting, and in the form of antibodies they protect us from pathogenic agents) or they act as a hormone.

Enzymes, the catalysts, which make vital metabolic processes in our body possible, are made of proteins as well.

How Much Protein Do We Need?

An adult needs approx. 40 g of protein per day. Protein should make up 15 - 20 % of the daily calorie intake. Children during growth, athletes and sick people have a higher protein demand.

In the case of a lack of protein, body protein is broken down. Atrophy of the muscles and a weakened immune system are the result. In industrialised countries this danger hardly exists. We rather take in too much protein.