What are the functions of protein on the human body

Protein is the material basis of life and a nutrient closely related to life. Many people only know that protein is important but do not know what roles protein plays in the human body. In fact, protein can provide energy to the body, so protein supplementation is very necessary.

1. Materials that constitute and repair various tissue cells in the body

Human nerves, muscles, internal organs, blood, bones, and even the scalp and nails outside the body contain protein, and these tissue cells are constantly being renewed every day. Therefore, the human body must consume a certain amount of protein every day as material for the construction and repair of tissues.

2.Constitute enzymes, hormones and antibodies

The metabolism of the human body is actually achieved through chemical reactions. In the process of chemical reactions in the human body, the catalytic action of enzymes is indispensable. Without enzymes, life activities cannot proceed. These enzymes with special functions are all composed of proteins. In addition, some hormones and insulin that regulate physiological functions, as well as antibodies that enhance the body's resistance and protect the body from pathogenic microorganisms, are also composed of protein as the main raw material.

3. Maintaining normal plasma osmotic pressure is to keep the balance of material exchange between plasma and tissues

If the diet lacks protein for a long time, the content of plasma protein, especially albumin, will decrease, and excessive water in the blood will penetrate into the surrounding tissues, causing clinical malnutrition edema.

4. Supply energy to the body

Under normal dietary conditions, the body can oxidize and decompose the remaining protein after completing its main functions and convert it into energy. However, from the perspective of the entire body, this function of protein is insignificant.

5. Maintain the body's acid-base balance

The tissue cells in the body must be within the appropriate acidity and alkalinity range to complete their normal physiological activities. The body's ability to maintain acid-base balance is achieved through the lungs, kidneys and blood buffer system. The protein buffer system is an important component of the blood buffer system. Therefore, protein plays a very important role in maintaining the body's acid-base balance.