Protein – The building block of life
Protein is the main building block of life: it is fundamental to the structure and functions of our body's cells. Its origin can be animal or vegetable. Proteins are made up of simpler elements (called amino acids) linked together.
8 of these amino acids are defined as "essential" because our body is not able to synthesise them and we must therefore get them from our food.
Maintaining adequate protein intake is also important as you age: 25% of healthy women over 60 years of age consume less protein than their daily requirement.
If you are vegetarian or vegan, it is important that your diet contains a wide variety of plant-based foods.
Sources include
It is important to have a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
Health benefits of protein
Why is Protein important?
- Contributes to growth and maintenance of muscle mass
- Contributes to the maintenance of normal bones
Wow! Protein and Healthy Ageing
As we get older, we have to consume more protein to support the changes to muscle mass. Older adults should consume 1.0 - 1.2g of protein per kilogram of body weight every day.
Source: European Food Safety Association
https://www.nutrition.org.uk/nutritionscience/nutrients-food-and-ingredients/protein
Paddon-Jones, D et al. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Volume 87, Issue 5, 1 May 2008, Pages 1562S–1566S Bauer J et al. J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2013;14(8):542-559