How much Protein does the Body Require?
How much protein does the body require? Protein is very important in the body as our muscles, skin, connective tissue, organs, nails, hair, enzymes, hormones are made from protein. Many people are obsessed with the notion of having enough protein for their body. In the 18th century it was believed that the body required approximately 115 grams of protein per day. Today the same question still lingers on the mind of many people.
Today’s scientists have revealed that an adult requires up to 30 grams of protein each day. In many countries in the world the required amount of protein is 0.78 grams per kilogram of body weight. On average a man with 70 kilograms will require 60 grams and 60 kilogram woman will require 45 grams.
However many people consume between 90 grams to 120 grams of protein per day. Human body can effectively harvest and recycle its own protein. The only protein that is completely lost when there is hair loss, nails or dead skin.
What the problem with consuming much protein?
Well, the problem may not be seen immediately but eventually it may lead to other complications as follows
• Most protein is from animal products, which make it to be loaded with cholesterol and fat. Excess fat and cholesterol in the body may lead to narrowing of blood vessels important for carrying oxygen to the heart.
• The kidney is overworked as it tries to remove the unwanted protein in the body. This may lead to kidney problems.
• Protein processing requires intake calcium. If one does not take the required content of calcium the body will draw its calcium from the body, hence leading to osteoporosis.
• Several times scientist has linked some cancers to excess consumption of animal protein.
• Children eating lots of protein containing fats have been known to mature fast. In the 18th century the sex maturity for teenage girls was around 17 years. In the modern world the sex maturity age has gone down to 11 years.
Protein content in food product-
NB: The content may vary depending on the product
[table]
| Type of Food | Grams |
| 1 full roasted chicken | 115 |
| 1 boiled egg | 6 |
| 1 glass of milk | 8 |
| ¼ kgs Tilapia | 45 |
| Cooked cereals | 9 |
| Milk shake | 10 |
| 100g beef | 27 |
| 100g pork | 17 |
| 100g beef sausages | 14 |
| 100g pork sausages | 17 |
[/table]
It’s important to observe the level of protein intake in our bodies. Many foods have protein; the only difference is the level. The basic thing is to ensure we get the correct amount of protein from a variety of foods other than from one source. Selecting the foods that also contain additional nutrients like vitamins and fiber should also be considered.
