Home Economics: Protein

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering protein structure, chemical composition, biological value classifications, dietary sources, RDA, energy yield, functions, and deficiency symptoms based on Home Economics lecture notes.

Amino Acids

The basic units and building blocks that join together to form proteins.

Peptide Links

The chemical bonds that connect amino acids together to form proteins.

CHON

The abbreviation representing the four chemical elements found in protein: Carbon ($\text{C}$), Hydrogen ($\text{H}$), Oxygen ($\text{O}$), and Nitrogen ($\text{N}$).

Nitrogen

The element unique to protein among the nutrients, which is essential for body growth.

High Biological Value (HBV) Protein

Protein that contains all essential amino acids; mainly sourced from animal foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and milk.

Low Biological Value (LBV) Protein

Protein that lacks one or more essential amino acids; mainly sourced from plant foods such as peas, beans, cereals, and nuts.

Functions of Protein

Growth and repair of body cells and tissues; production of hormones, enzymes, and antibodies; and serving as a secondary source of energy when consumed in excess.

Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of Protein

$1\,\text{g}$ of protein per $\text{kg}$ of body weight per day (e.g., a $60\,\text{kg}$ individual requires $60\,\text{g}$ of protein daily).

Energy Yield of Protein

The amount of energy released when protein is metabolized, equal to $4\,\text{kcal}$ or $17\,\text{kJ}$ per $1\,\text{g}$ of protein.

Deficiency of Protein

A nutritional deficiency that is rare in developed countries but can result in stunted growth and complications affecting tissue repair and immunity.