Protein

Question 1: Structure and function The phrase “structure determines function” is appropriately used in reference to protein. With this phrase in mind, discuss the following: what does the term “denature” mean? Describe how heating an egg is an example of a denatured protein. Describe how “soured” milk is an example of denatured protein. Find another example of a protein where structure determines function. Question 2: Supplements and amino acids Nekesa is considering taking a nutrition supplement of the amino acid arginine. Considering what you know about the absorption of amino acids, why would you caution her against this? Is there another supplement you would recommend she take? What would you want to know about her diet? Question 3: Complementary proteins Rice is high in the amino acids methionine but low in the amino acid lysine. Beans are high in lysine but low in methionine. Explain why eating rice and beans together increases the protein quality of a meal, as compared to eating a vegetarian meal that contains rice and no beans. Use the following terms in your response: essential amino acids, incomplete dietary protein, high quality protein, protein complementation. Is it necessary to eat the rice and beans at the same meal? What is another example of protein complementation? Question 4: Vegan diets Why are vegans at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency? Would you recommend someone who follows a vegan diet take a supplement? Why or why not? Question 5: Calculating protein needs Calculate your protein needs. Protein calculation is based on the factor: 0.8 grams of protein per kg body weight. Note: Divide your weight in pounds by 2.2 to get your weight in kilograms. Do you feel you are meeting your needs? If so, state how you are meeting these needs. If not, how might you go about meeting your protein needs? Why do protein needs vary by age and lifestyle stage?