PROTEINS

Proteins are polymers composed of monomers called amino acids. 12 amino acids are made by the human body, while 8 amino acids must come from food. Any number of combinations made by these amino acids make up different kinds of proteins. This process is made by Ribosomes.

Proteins' structure:

A protein is made up of one or more long folded chains of amino acids connected by peptide bonds. These chains contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. 

Amino acids are made up of a central carbon atom, an amino group NH2 on one end, a carboxyl group COOH on the other end, a single hydrogen atom, and an R group that determines the kinds of amino acids. The R group has 20 different amino acids, which range from polar, non-polar, acidic, or basic. 

Proteins' properties:

Proteins provide structural support, aid chemical reactions in the body, transport substances, and are essential in hormone production, and fighting diseases. For example, the enzymes in your body are essential for digestion, liver function, and much more as they speed up the chemical reactions in our bodies. 

How should you include proteins in your diet?

Eating proteins is very important in a balanced diet, as proteins aid recovery from injuries/exercise, build and repair muscles and bones, and make hormones and enzymes that are important for digestion. Proteins are also used as an energy source.

                                       

Proteins should make up 25-35 percent of your diet.