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Nutrition: Chapter 6 Proteins

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Terms in this set (20)

  • What are proteins composed of?
    Proteins are composed of amino acids, which contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen.
  • What distinguishes essential amino acids?
    Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from the diet.
  • Define complete protein.
    A complete protein contains all essential amino acids in adequate amounts.
  • What is protein denaturation?
    Protein denaturation is the alteration of a protein's structure by heat, acid, or other agents, affecting its function.
  • What role do proteins play in the body?
    Proteins function in growth, repair, enzymes, hormones, immune response, and as a transport molecule.
  • What is the primary structure of a protein?
    The primary structure is the sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.
  • How is protein quality measured?
    Protein quality is measured by its amino acid composition and digestibility.
  • What is the recommended protein intake for adults?
    The recommended intake is about 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day.
  • What is a limiting amino acid?
    A limiting amino acid is the essential amino acid present in the lowest amount relative to body needs.
  • Explain complementary proteins.
    Complementary proteins are two or more incomplete proteins that together provide all essential amino acids.
  • What happens during protein synthesis?
    During protein synthesis, amino acids are linked in a specific sequence to form a polypeptide chain.
  • What is the role of enzymes in protein digestion?
    Enzymes like pepsin and trypsin break down proteins into amino acids for absorption.
  • What is nitrogen balance?
    Nitrogen balance is the difference between nitrogen intake and nitrogen excretion, indicating protein status.
  • What is positive nitrogen balance?
    Positive nitrogen balance occurs when intake exceeds excretion, indicating growth or tissue repair.
  • What is negative nitrogen balance?
    Negative nitrogen balance occurs when excretion exceeds intake, indicating muscle breakdown or illness.
  • Name a condition caused by protein deficiency.
    Kwashiorkor is a condition caused by severe protein deficiency despite adequate calorie intake.
  • What is the biological value of a protein?
    Biological value measures how efficiently the body uses absorbed protein for growth and maintenance.
  • How do proteins contribute to fluid balance?
    Proteins help maintain fluid balance by attracting and holding water in blood vessels.
  • What is the role of proteins in acid-base balance?
    Proteins act as buffers to help maintain the body's acid-base balance.
  • What is the difference between animal and plant proteins?
    Animal proteins are usually complete, while most plant proteins are incomplete and may lack some essential amino acids.