How Protein Is Digested

When we eat protein foods the protein is digested in the gut by enzymes into single amino acids. The amino acids then pass first to the liver and then into the blood to the cells where protein synthesis takes place.

Protein from eggs, meat and other animal sources take longer to digest than vegetable proteins.

Is protein used as energy?

Protein contains amino acids which are nutritionally important, they repair our muscles and help us to grow. However, protein also has a secondary function, it is used as a source of energy. If our diet does not get enough "energy" then protein will be used to compensate for the lack of energy rather than for growth and repair.

Tip: Ensuring your diet contains enough carbohydrates to keep your body fueled with energy will ensure your body uses protein for it's most important job, growth and repair.