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Protein
Protein constitutes three-fourths of our body tissue (excluding the water). Muscles, organs, antibodies, enzymes, and some hormones are largely composed of proteins. Other key body functions include tissue repair, fluid balance, blood clotting, and vision.
What is protein?

Protein is not a single substance but numerous chemical combinations. The basic structure of protein is amino acid chains, which can form many different configurations and can combine with other substances. There have been 22 amino acids identified in the protein of the human body. Proteins are constantly broken down in the body. Most of these are reused by the body. However, some need to be replaced. There are nine that are considered to be essential. These cannot be manufactured by the body and must be supplied by the diet.

How much protein do you need?

The average protein requirement for women is 50 grams per day and 60 grams per day for men. Meat and other animal products are the most readily available sources of complete protein. The protein content of cooked meat and dairy products is between 15% and 40%. In contrast, cooked cereals, beans, lentils, and peas range from 3% to 10%. Vegetarians can get enough protein if they eat a well-balanced diet of grains and vegetables, like brown rice, whole wheat pasta, soy products, and beans.

What are good sources of protein?

Eggs, milk, fish, beef, peanuts, oats, rice, whole wheat products, corn products, soybean products, sesame seeds, peas, and beans are all good sources of protein.

Do high protein diets help people gain muscle mass?

You need adequate protein to build muscle, but if 10-15% of your diet is protein, you are getting enough to maintain and add new muscle and tissue. It is a myth that super-high protein diets assist in increasing lean muscle mass or give athletes a competitive edge. Any excess protein will be stored as fat, not muscle. Plus, the conversion of large amounts of protein to fat puts stress on both the kidneys and the liver.