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Proteins Discussion Questions

1. Discuss the importance of protein in our diets

Protein has several and important roles in people body hence are essential in every diet.  First, proteins assist in repair and buiding of body tissues and allow metabolic processes and reactions to take place and coordinate several functions of the body.  In addition to providing the body with a structural framework, proteins also maintain the correct fluid and PH balance (Fu et al., 2019).  Lastly, proteins assist in keeping the immune system strong, store and transport nutrients in all parts of the body, and also act as source of energy whenever other sources such as carbohydrates are completely depleted.

1. Discuss the shape of a protein and how this dictates function

Protein structure is a three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in an amino acid-chain molecule. The protein biological actions are based on 3D arrangements of vital side chains that exist between them (also known as the architecture of the protein active site). The general folding of protein is in charge to ensure the architecture with a particular flexibility essential to permit molecular dynamics that drive several and important the biological processes. Immediately, the geometry of active sites is customized and modified beyond the elasticity that is necessary for the dynamics, protein actions are affected (Fu et al., 2019). This is the structure/function relationship.

1.  List and discuss the many functions of proteins in the human body.

Repair and maintenance- they are known as the building blocks in which they maintain body tissues including repair and development.

Hormones- proteins are involved in creation of specific hormones

Energy- they are broken down to produce energy especially when there are insufficient carbohydrates

Transportation and Storage of Molecules

Antibodies-Protein forms antibodies that help prevent infection, illness and disease.

Enzymes-Enzymes are proteins that increase the rate of chemical reactions in the body

1. What is protein balance, and why is it important to understand this concept in health and recovery.

Protein balance can be defined as the equilibrium that exists between, protein intake protein catabolism and elimination of nitrogenous products. Basically it is the correct amount of the proteins in the body (Zhang et al., 2019). Protein balance is important in regards to the functions of proteins that include the ability transportation and storage of molecules, creation of hormones, and source of energy.

1. Discuss the process of calculating Body Mass Index (BMI)

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a way of knowing if one has an ideal weight. It is important to note that both underweight and overweigh have got serious health issues. The process of calculating BMI involves taking a person’s weight and height. The formula is Kg/M² where Kg is one’s weight while M² is the height. Based on the standards, a BMI of 25 or more is overweight while the healthy BMI ranges from 18.5 to 24.9. On the same note, a BMI that is below 18.5 is considered underweight.

1. Discuss the body’s use and storage of energy

There are several sources of energy in the body which include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Carbohydrates are the primary sources of energy which they are broken down via enzymatic process to produce ATP. However, in the event that there are insufficient carbohydrates, the body resorts to proteins or lipids to generate energy. However, excess energy are stored in the body with the help of insulin. Insulin does this by turning the extra food into larger packages of glucose called glycogen. Glycogen is stored in the liver and muscles. Insulin also helps our bodies store fat and protein. Almost all body cells need protein to work and grow.

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