Magazine_Spring2021_RND3_04.05.21.indd

By Lyndi Wieand Protein, one of the macronutrients our body needs to function, is often a hot topic when someone comes into a nutrition consultation with a Registered Dietitian for the first time. People often ask what it is for, how much they need, when they need it, and how to get it. Questions often include “Should I be using protein powder?” or “Is it possible to get enough protein just from food?” and also, “What’s the best kind?” The truth is many people consume more protein daily than their body needs without realizing. This exact amount needed does vary based on one’s age, gender, activity level, weight, and any existing medical conditions. A general rule of thumb for calculating one’s needs can be done by taking your body weight in pounds x 0.36 = approximately ___ grams of protein per day. The body cannot store protein like it can fat and carbohydrates; therefore, it is important to resupply its sources after it has been used up. One of the most important functions of protein is that it acts as the building blocks of our bodies, used to make muscles, tendons, organs and skin, as well as enzymes, hormones and neurotransmitters. These building blocks are comprised of twenty-two amino acids, which are the molecules that link together to form chains of proteins. In adults, the human body can naturally produce thirteen non-essential amino acids, while the other nine essential must be obtained from food. Through the contribution of many unique amino acid chains, there are at least 10,000 proteins that work throughout your body. Continued on next page. PROTEIN 101: BACK TO BASICS Nutrition Quarterly · 2021 – Volume 2 5 What We’re Reading