Question

Proteins Learning Activity

1 Individuals such as vegetarians who do not consume complete protein sources, should consume complementary proteins to ensure adequate intakes of all essential amino acids. List 3 sets of complementary proteins.

1. As stated above, research indicates that most Americans consume protein in excess of 2-3 times the RDA. Discuss the potential health effects (problems) an individual would be at risk for by consuming excess amounts of protein and/or protein rich foods for a prolonged period of time. Include complete references. (200 word minimum)

2. Some individual such as vegans who do not consume any meat or dairy products, may have difficulty meeting the current protein recommendations. Although these individuals may be consuming inadequate amounts of protein or specific amino acids, they typically are not deficient enough to acquire protein energy malnutrition. Based on what you learned about the functions of proteins in the body, how could a diet not meeting the protein recommendations hinder specific processes/functions in the body? (Do not discuss protein energy malnutrition) Include references. (200 word minimum)

Answer 1

1.Ans. Proteins are basic component of living cells and are made of carbon,hydrogen,oxygen,nitrogen and one or more chains of aminoacids .Protein combining or protein complementing is a dietary theory for protein nutrition which supports to optimize the biological value of protein intake.The three most common complementary protein combinations are

• Grains-rice,corn,wheat,barley etc.
• Legumes-peas,beans,lentils.
• Grains and milk products.

As Americans are consuming proteins 2-3 time higher than required amounts ,they are allowed to face following effects(problems): Injesting large amounts of the macronutrient was connected to kideny problems according to several clinical studies.It may worsen the kidney problem as your body may have trouble in eliminating the waste products of protein metabolism.

WHO has determined after conducting a vast study on nutrition research the heavy red meat consumption leads to colorectal cancer. Nobody understands that how macronutrients when isolated impact our diverse bodies.

some high protein diet restrict carbohydrate intake so much that they can result in nutritional deficiencies or insufficient fiber which can cause problems such as bad breath,headache and constipation.

A high protein foods such red meat and fully fat dairy products may lead to increase the risk of heart disease.

Consuming too much protein on regular basis can cause intestinal discomfort and indigestion.

Most research indicates that having more than 2g. per kg of body weight daily of protein for a long time can cause health problems such as dehydration, nausea,irritability,diarrhea,unexplained exhaustion which are minor risks.

There are serious risks with chronic protein intake/ consumption includes cardiovascular disease,blood vessel disorders, liver damage may results,kidney related problems occur,seizures,death may caused because of chronic protein intake which affects the protein metabolism in the body and elimination of waste products from body of protein metabolism.

Hence these are the problems mostly caused because of high and chronic protein consumption.

reference from Diet and Nutrition books of various Indian authors.

Vegans have not been shown to be deficient in protein intake or in any specific aminoacids. A diet not meeting the specific protein intake in vegans as they heavily depends on processed foods and may not eat a sufficient  variety of fruits ,vegetables and whole grains.The Academy of Nutrition and Dietics warns of risk of vitamin B12 deficiencies in vegetarians and vegans.Vitamin B12 naturally found in animal products mostly and it's deficiency leads anemia and blindness,muscle weakness,tingling and numbness.To counteract the risk should include fortifiled cereals in their diet.

A diet not meeting the specific protein intake in vegans may results in impaired immune function,muscle loss,decreased growth in children.

Other possible problems included anemia,fatty liver disease,hair loss,reduced bone density.

Therefore it is very important to ensure you are getting a good source of proteins from other sources to prevent protein related problems in vegans  which may effects the other body functions and metabolisms.

Reference from Diet and nutrition books published by Indian authors