1. Meat, eggs, and dairy are good sources of protein. When youeat these foods, proteins are digested and absorbed. Follow aprotein through the digestion process from the mouth through to theintestines. What enzymes are involved in its digestion? What is thesmallest unit that proteins are broken down into? Where are theseproducts absorbed?

2. What are a few things proteins are used for in the body oncethey’ve been absorbed?

3. Once in the body, amino acids are absorbed by our cells andenter the amino acid pool. From here, a cell will draw from thepool to assemble the proteins it needs at that specific time. Whatwill happen if one or more of the essential amino acids aremissing?

4. Describe (in your own words) the four structural levels of aprotein.

5. What is the relationship between a protein’s structure andits function? Explain how amino acids side chains impact proteinstructure and function.

6. DNA guides protein assembly. When there is a mutation in ourDNA, the impact on the protein can vary. Explain why some mutationscan cause no change to the protein and some can completely disruptthe function of the protein.

7. Your body prefers not to use proteins for energy, but it willas a last resort. Explain how amino acids are broken down togenerate ATP in this scenario.

8. What happens to the nitrogen portion of the amino acid?

9. Your doctor measures your nitrogen balance and finds it isnegative. What does this mean about how your body is using protein?How can you balance out your nitrogen levels?

10. If you decided to become a vegetarian or vegan, how wouldyou ensure you were eating adequate protein? Think about not justthe amount, but also the essential amino acids.

11. The RDA for protein is listed below. Calculate your ownpersonal protein requirements and show yourwork for full credit. You will need to convert yourweight to kg. There are 2.2 lbs in 1 kg.

Ex: a 50 kg adult would need 50 kg*0.8 g/kg = 40 g protein perday