Proteins

Proteins are made up of building blocks called amino acids – when dietary protein is digested, it is broken down into amino acids. The body then synthesises all the thousands of different proteins it needs for a wide variety of roles from the amino acids obtained from foods.

The synthesised proteins have a range of different functions in the organs as well as the immune system. One example of a protein is haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in our blood.

Protein in the diet is important for the growth of tissue, muscles and bones, as well as repair and regeneration throughout the entire life cycle. Foods rich in protein trigger the release of satiety hormones, keeping the individual feeling full for longer.

Protein-rich foods include meat, poultry, fish, seafood, eggs, milk and dairy products, nuts, seeds, beans and pulses, and soya.