Protein

Description and function

Proteins are the basic building blocks of all human cells and have many important functions in the body. Proteins are composed of amino acids. These can be partially produced by the body itself. But some must be obtained from food because the body can not synthesize them. These are called essential amino acids.

Proteins in the diet

Proteins are particularly rich in animal products such as meat, dairy products, fish and eggs, but also in plant foods such as legumes or grains. The energy value of one gram of protein is 17.2 kJ ( 4.1 kcal) .

A daily protein intake of 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight is recommended for adults. Children and adolescents in the growth as well as pregnant and nursing women have a slightly increased need.