Role Of Protein In Atkins Diet
Introduction
Our body is like a machine which needs to be fuelled regularly for it to work properly. This fuel is provided to the body in form of nutrients like fat, protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and water which are the basic component of the diet. Each of these components has a different function to perform in the body. Protein is important because it helps in the repair of wear and tear of the tissues and helps in muscle activity too.
Role of protein
Protein rich diet has been considered as most efficient weight reduction plan in the recent years through atkins diet. Such diet involves the intake of saturated fats and cholesterol because the main source of protein is animal products such as meat, eggs, milk etc. The weight loss is very high in the initial stages because of fluid loss due to low carbohydrate intake as well as loss of appetite. The body requires some essential amino acids and some non essential amino acids. Protein forms an indispensable component of the body. It is an important constituent to enzymes, body muscles, bones, skin and other body tissues. It is responsible for carrying out important reactions in the body. Adults require 1 gram of protein per kilogram of the body weight. Unlike fats and carbohydrates it is not stored in the body for future use so it is important to take protein in proper quantity through daily diet. Protein on being digested releases amino acids which are neutralized with the help of calcium and other neutralizing agents in the body. Excess protein in the body is not good because when we eat a lot of protein rich food, a lot of calcium is required for neutralizing the amino acids produced in the body. If the body does not receive the calcium required it starts deriving it from the bones which eventually leads to the weakening of bones. Therefore rich protein intake must be supplemented with calcium.
Conclusion
Animal meat is the main source of protein and hence all the amino acids to the body. People surviving on vegetarian diet must supplement their diet with all the essential amino acids as vegetables do not provide with all amino acids required for the normal body functioning. Protein deficiency leads to kwashiorkor, hair loss, weakened immunity, weakened muscles, heart and respiratory system.