Proteins
Proteins are one of the essential food ingredients, described as either first class proteins, or second class proteins, made up of long chain amino acids, either essential or non-essential.
| AGE PERIOD | DAILY INTAKE |
| Under one year | 3.5 grams / 2.2lbs |
| One to three years | 40 grams |
| Four to six years | 50 grams |
| Seven to nine years | 60 grams |
| Ten to twelve years | 70 grams |
| Thirteen to twenty years | 75 – 100 grams |
| Male adult | 70 – 100 grams |
| Female adult | 60 – 90 grams |
| Pregnant | 85 – 100 grams |
| Lactating | 100 – 200 grams |
Protein deficiency may lead to abnormalities of growth and tissue development. The hair, nails and skin especially will be affected and muscle tone will be poor.
Loss of body protein can occur as a result of particular bodily stresses such as surgery, hemorrhage, wounds or prolonged illness.
At times of stress, or exercise it is necessary to consume extra protein in order to rebuild or replace used or worn out tissues.
