What do proteins do in the body

Protein deficiency can lead to malnutrition , such as kwashiorkor and marasmus , which can be life threatening. Protein shakes and protein powders contain high amounts of protein. Protein powders may contain 10—30 g of protein per scoop. They may also contain added sugars, flavorings, vitamins, and minerals.

Building and repairing muscle requires protein. Many athletes and bodybuilders use protein products to boost muscle growth. A wide range of protein supplements is currently available, many claiming to encourage weight loss and increase muscle mass and strength. A review reported that taking protein supplements significantly improved muscle size and strength in healthy adults who do resistance exercise, such as weight lifting.

However, protein shakes and powders count as dietary supplements, and so they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration FDA.

This means people cannot guarantee that the products contain what the manufacturer claims they do. Some supplements may also contain banned or unhealthy substances, such as heavy metals or pesticides.

Many protein products are high in added sugar and calories, which can lead to spikes in blood sugar and weight gain, so it is important to check the labels. Most people, including athletes, can get enough protein from a balanced diet without supplements.

Getting too much protein consistently can cause serious health problems. Some people may benefit from using protein powder to address health concerns, including those with:. For most people, a varied and healthful diet will provide enough protein. For the best health benefits, people can get their protein from a variety of sources. These include fish, meat, soy, beans, tofu, nuts, and seeds.

To limit fat intake while increasing protein intake, choose lean meat, poultry, and dairy products, or trim the fat before eating.

Try using cooking methods that do not add extra fat, such as grilling. Avoid processed meats and other processed foods , as these can have negative health effects. Choose nutrient-rich foods instead of processed foods when possible. If a person wants to increase their protein intake, they can do so by including healthful, high protein foods with each meal. The most healthful diet involves eating a variety of nutrient dense foods from all major food groups.

Learn about healthful diets and tips here. To function, the body needs protein. This essential element of the diet exists in both animals and plants. Anyone who wants to ensure that their diet…. Peanut butter is high in protein and essential minerals, though it also contains saturated fats and is high in calories. In moderation, peanut butter…. People who eat or are considering vegetarian or vegan diets may be concerned about getting enough protein from their food.

In this article, we look at…. Growth hormone. These proteins provide structure and support for cells. On a larger scale, they also allow the body to move. Other chapters in Help Me Understand Genetics. Genetics Home Reference has merged with MedlinePlus.

Learn more. The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.

What are proteins and what do they do? From Genetics Home Reference. Proteins can be described according to their large range of functions in the body, listed in alphabetical order: Examples of protein functions Function Description Example Antibody Antibodies bind to specific foreign particles, such as viruses and bacteria, to help protect the body.

They carry out a variety of functions from doing some metabolic conversions to holding your cells together to causing your muscles to work. Their functions fall into a few broad categories. One is structural. Your body is made up of many different kinds of structures — think of stringlike structures, globules, anchors, etc. They form the stuff that holds your body together. Collagen is a protein that gives structure to your skin, bones and even teeth.

Integrin is a protein that makes flexible linkages between your cells. Your hair and nails are made of a protein called keratin. Another big role that they take on is biochemistry — how your body carries out particular reactions in your cell, like breaking down fat or amino acids. Remember when I said our body breaks down the protein from the food that we eat? Even that function is carried out by proteins like pepsin. Another example is hemoglobin — the protein that carries oxygen around in your blood.

Proteins can also process signals and information, like circadian clock proteins which keep time in our cells, but those are a few main categories of functions that proteins carry out in the cell. Different types of foods have different kinds of protein content.