Proteins: The Building Blocks of Life
Ever wonder what your muscles, hair, and enzymes have in common? They're all made of proteins! Scientists Gerardus Johannes Mulder discovered proteins' chemical makeup, while Jons Jacob Berzelius gave them their name.
Proteins are built from smaller units called amino acids. Think of amino acids as LEGO pieces that connect together to form complex structures. Each amino acid has three parts: an amino group, a carboxyl group, and an R group (side chain) that makes each amino acid unique. When amino acids join through a process called dehydration synthesis, they form peptide bonds.
Your body uses 20 different amino acids, but can't make 10 of them on its own. These are called essential amino acids and must come from your diet through foods like chicken, fish, and beans. Unlike fats, proteins aren't stored in your body, so you need to consume them regularly.
Quick Fact: Proteins can contain thousands of amino acids folded into complex shapes. This specific structure determines exactly what each protein can do in your body!
