Patient's Query
I am a 24 year old female. I would like to know the role of proteins inside the body.
What is the significance of taking protein every day?
Please provide the recommended protein levels to be taken daily based on age, gender, activity level, and health status.
What are the health consequences faced due to protein deficiency?
What are the health risks faced due to excess protein consumption?
Thank you.
Hello.
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
Every cell in the human body contains protein. The basic structure of a protein is a chain of amino acids. You need protein to help your body repair cells and make new ones. Protein is also essential for growth and development in children, teens, and pregnant women.
Proteins serve as structural support, biochemical catalysts, hormones, enzymes, building blocks, and initiators of cellular death. Proteins can be further defined by their four structural levels: primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary. Protein should account for anywhere from 10 to 35 percent of your calories. So, if your needs are 2,000 calories, that is 200 –700 calories from protein or 0.11 - 0.38 pound.
Over time, a lack of protein can cause muscle mass loss, which in turn reduces strength, makes it harder to maintain balance, and slows metabolism. It can also lead to anemia when cells do not get enough oxygen, which makes you tired.
Kwashiorkor is a type of malnutrition characterized by severe protein deficiency. It causes fluid retention and a swollen, distended abdomen. Kwashiorkor most commonly affects children, particularly in developing countries with high levels of poverty and food insecurity.
The protein levels can be raised by:
Adding a protein source to each meal.
Swapping classic breakfast foods like cereals for eggs.
Eating high protein snacks like edamame, nuts, and cottage cheese.
Drinking a protein shake.
Most people should aim for a maximum of 0.0044 pounds of protein per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day. Consuming too much protein could lead to a range of problems involving the digestive system, blood vessels, and kidneys. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein depends on age, gender, and weight.
The best way to eliminate extra proteins in the body is to adjust your diet by limiting your protein intake and ensuring balanced nutrients. Also, drink more water and eat plenty of fiber. You might need medical help if you are feeling very unwell due to the overeating of protein.
I hope this is helpful.
Thank you.
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Answered bySumiya Sulthana
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
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