Balancing Protein for Health

Proteins are important for regulating and maintaining body functions such as blood clotting, fluid balance, hormone and enzyme production, and cellular repair. Proteins are made of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen, and their building blocks are amino acids. Amino acids are linked by peptide bonds to form proteins. Protein synthesis begins with DNA and occurs in the cytoplasm, where proteins fold into a three-dimensional shape. The order of amino acids determines the protein’s shape and function, and changes in shape can cause denaturation, which affects its function.

The body uses 20 amino acids, which are classified as nonessential or essential. Nonessential amino acids can be produced by the body, while essential amino acids must be obtained from the diet. Animal foods such as meat, eggs, and dairy are good sources of protein because they contain all 20 amino acids. However, animal proteins also contain high amounts of saturated fat and pathogens. Plant sources such as legumes, grains, nuts, seeds, and vegetables can also provide all essential amino acids when eaten in a variety throughout the day. The recommended protein intake for adults to maintain balance is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. Protein digestion begins in the stomach, where hydrochloric acid (HCl) and pepsin break proteins down into smaller components. Amino acids are then absorbed in the small intestine.

Diseases
Consuming the right types and adequate amounts of protein from healthy food sources is important for proper body function and for preventing health problems. Some conditions are related to problems with protein or amino acids. For example, phenylketonuria requires tyrosine and limiting phenylalanine to prevent toxic buildup in the blood. Sickle cell anemia occurs when the order of amino acids changes, altering the structure of hemoglobin and reducing its ability to carry oxygen. A leaky gut allows proteins to enter the bloodstream and trigger allergies. Inadequate protein intake causes edema, leading to fluid buildup in the tissues, and also results in muscle loss and a higher risk of infections such as kwashiorkor and marasmus. Excessive protein intake places extra strain on the kidneys, increasing their workload as they filter and excrete the byproducts of protein metabolism, which over time can contribute to kidney damage.

Supplements
Consuming protein in the form of amino acid supplements is not considered entirely safe because the body’s gastrointestinal system is adapted to process whole proteins as a dietary source of amino acids. Individual amino acid supplements can overwhelm the absorption mechanisms in the small intestine. There are exceptions, such as consuming peptides for certain chronic diseases and for specific periods of time. I heard a podcast from Dr. Axe, where he shared that he experienced significant health improvements by using peptides alongside a proper diet and under the guidance of a physician who specializes in peptide therapy.