Protein is comprised of Amino Acids strung together in "chains"of varying lengths. These amino acids are both manufactured by the body and absorbed from the gut. Those amino acids which are not manufactured in the body and must therefore be eaten are called the Essential Amino Acids.

Amino acids and proteins are the building blocks of the body,and their functions include the production of:

	DNA and RNA
	Enzymes
	Cells
	Connective tissue
	Organs
	Muscle

Protein is found in meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy productsin a readily available form, and in vegetables, cereals and legumes in a form where the amino acids are not as readily used. 50-60% of the body weight is made up of protein.

The body only stores protein as muscle in times of growth (anabolism). At other times, excess protein is converted to fat and stored.