Proteins are structurally more complex than carbohydrates and lipids and contain an amino (NH2) group.
They are synthesized in the cell cytoplasm from constituent molecules called amino acids. The amino acids joined together by bonds that are referred to as peptide bonds.
There are at least 20 different amino acids in human body, which all provided from the diet. However, body capable of making 12 amino acids form nitrogen and smaller molecules derived from carbohydrates and fats.
Proteins serve many different functions in the body. Some are enzymes and regulate the rate of chemical reactions; other is important in growth and repair of tissues.
Cell, hormones, muscles, blood and all tissues and fluid except bile and urine require protein. Proteins help to regulate the body’s water balance and maintain the proper internal pH.
It is of great importance, to have good sources of both essential and nonessential amino acids to provide sufficient nitrogen.
Proteins in the form of amino acids are the building blocks of the body.
Some amino acids act as neurotransmitters, the chemicals that carry information from one nerve cell to another.
Amino acids also enable vitamins and minerals to perform their jobs properly.
Amino acids in human body
