Protein and Fatty Acids Overview

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to proteins and fatty acids, essential for understanding their roles and importance in human nutrition.

Short chain fatty acids

Fatty acids that are water soluble and found in triglycerides, with a glycerol backbone and less than 6 carbon atoms.

Medium chain fatty acids (MCFA)

Fatty acids that are water soluble, found in certain triglycerides, and consist of 6 to 12 carbon atoms.

Long chain fatty acids (LCFA)

Fatty acids that are found in triglycerides and require micelles for absorption into intestinal cells.

Role of protein in the body

Provides structure, speeds up metabolic reactions, and transports substances throughout the body.

Amino acids

The building blocks of proteins, consisting of an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a side chain.

Essential amino acids

Amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from the diet.

Nonessential amino acids

Amino acids that can be synthesized by the body and do not need to be obtained from the diet.

Denaturation

The process that changes the 3D structure of a protein, often due to temperature or pH changes.

Peptide bond

The bond that links amino acids together to form proteins.

Incomplete protein

A protein source that lacks one or more essential amino acids; commonly found in plant sources.

Complete protein

A protein source that contains all essential amino acids in the right proportions; commonly found in animal sources.

Protein turnover

The constant process of breaking down and rebuilding proteins in the body.

Deamination

The removal of an amino group from an amino acid, which converts it into a carbon compound that can be used for energy production.

Gluconeogenesis

The metabolic process that converts non-carbohydrate substrates into glucose, using amino acids when glucose is low.

Amino Acid Pool

The total amount of amino acids available in body tissues and fluids, used for various metabolic processes.

Urea

A waste product formed in the liver from the deamination of amino acids, which is excreted from the body through urine.

Hydration and kidney function issues

Health concerns related to high protein intake, particularly in relation to urea excretion and increased water loss.