5 Important Functions of Proteins in the Body

The word protein means to ‘take the first place’. In 1938 a Dutch chemist Mulder, described that all living plants and animals contain certain substance without which life was not possible and this was identified as proteins. In constitution of body they stand next to the water. Indeed proteins are of the greatest importance in human nutrition.

They are complex organic compounds containing the carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and usually sulphur Some proteins also contain phosphorus, iron, iodine, copper and other inorganic elements. The proteins differ from carbohydrates and fats as they contain nitrogen. Proteins are made up of much smaller units known as amino acids.

Proteins are very essential for life processes, as there is hardly any important physiological function in which proteins to not participate. The important functions of proteins are:

Functions of Proteins

1. Bodybuilding

Bodybuilding is the most important function of protein. These are the major structural components of body tissues. In fact every living cell contains protein. The first need for proteins therefore is to supply the materials for growth and development and the continuous replacement of the cell protein.

2. Body Regulatory

Many proteins have highly specialised functions in the regulation of body processes. All chemical reactions in the body are carried out by enzymes, which are protein in nature. Proteins are also a constituent of haemoglobin, which is necessary to carry oxygen from lungs to tissues and bring back carbon dioxide. Governing the body reaction are hormones, which are also proteins. Plasma protein has a fundamental role in the maintenance of water balance. Blood proteins also help in maintaining acid base balance of the body.

3. Body Protection

There is a protein called gamma globulin, which has a capacity to fight against invading organism. The body’s resistance to disease is maintained in part by antibodies which are protein in nature.

4. Energy Yielding

The energy needs of the body take priority over other needs. If diet does not furnished sufficient energy from carbohydrates and fats, the proteins of the diet as well as tissue protein will be used up for giving energy. One gram of protein gives 4 calories.

5. Maintenance of Body Temperature

During the metabolism of proteins extra heat is liberated, which is used for maintaining the body temperature.

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