by Lady Carla Davis, MPH
Specializing in Nutrition
PROTEIN: Essential For All Life’s Processes
Derived from the Greek word proteios, meaning “chief,” protein is so called because it is the chief constituent of living matter. Protein is a varying group of nitrogenous organic compounds, composed principally of amino acids of high molecular weight. Protein occurs in all living cells and is essential for all life’s processes in humans, animals, and plants.
The human body is largely made up of protein; it accounts for approximately half the dry weight and 20% of the total weight of an adult. Protein is 90% of the dry weight of blood, 80% of muscles, and 70% of skin. Proteins provide the building blocks for connective tissue and are the primary constituents of enzymes, hormones, and antibodies. Proteins are part of many important chemicals, including enzymes and immunoglobulins. Protein forms the foundation of muscles, skin, bones, hair, teeth, blood, the brain and heart, and the billions of biochemical activities going on in our bodies every minute.
Protein contains approximately 22 amino acids, eight of which are essential because the body cannot produce them.
Therefore, they must be obtained from our diet or supplements and be balanced. The essential amino acids are: L-Histidine, L-Isoleucine, L-Leucine, L-Lysine, L-Methionine, L-Phenylalanine, L-Threonine, L-Valine
Essential amino acid L-Lysine supports the production of cellular energy and protects skin structure. It is also an important building block of collagen, which protects connective tissue by controlling the enzymatic digestion of collagen.
Research has shown that L-Lysine inhibits the formation of the herpes, shingles, and other viruses, which makes it a vital supplement to help protect from CV (corona virus) infection. It also assists Carnitine production. L-Lysine is also an important amino acid in children’s growth, development, and appetite.
Essential amino acid L-Methionine is a substrate for other amino acids such as Cysteine and Taurine, versatile compounds such as SAM-e, and the important antioxidant glutathione. It plays a critical role in metabolism, health, and healing. It is also an important part of angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels. It can help reduce symptoms of copper toxicity. But, too much can promote tumor growth.
The sulphur-containing amino acids: Methionine, Cystine, and Cysteine are particularly important for development and health of the brain and nervous system. Studies have shown as little as 20 mg of bio-available Cysteine per day produces dramatic results in individuals using resistance training*1.
Essential amino acid L-Phenylalanine is a precursor for Tyrosine, the monoamine neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and epinephrine (adrenaline), and the skin pigment melanin.