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Protein is found in foods from both plants and animals. Protein is made up of hundreds or thousands of smaller units, called amino acids, which are linked to one another in long chains. The sequence of amino acids determines each protein’s unique structure and its specific function. 

There are 20 different amino acids that that can be combined to make every type of protein in the body. These amino acids fall into two categories: 

• Essential amino acids are required for normal body functioning, but they cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from food we eat. Of the 20 amino acids, 9 are considered essential. 
• Nonessential amino acids can be synthesized by the body from essential amino acids consumed in food or in the normal breakdown of body proteins. Of the 20 amino acids, 11 are considered nonessential. 

Proteins are the building blocks of life. Every cell in the human body contains protein. 

• Protein is a component of every cell in the human body and is necessary for proper growth and development, especially during childhood, adolescence, and pregnancy.
• Protein helps your body build and repair cells and body tissue.
• Protein is a major part of your skin, hair, nails, muscle, bone, and internal organs. Protein is also found in almost all body fluids.

   

• Protein is important for many body processes, such as blood clotting, fluid balance, immune response, vision, and production of hormones, antibodies, and enzymes.