Protein is an essential nutrient for growth, development, and repair of skin, muscles, and other body tissues. Proteins are also necessary for the production of enzymes and hormones within the body. As proteins are digested, they break down into amino acids, which are essential for the body to build muscle and tissue.
The body is not capable of storing
protein for use at a later time; therefore, a person’s protein intake should constitute 10–35 percent of calories consumed daily. Practitioners typically increase protein in
the diets of patients who have suffered wounds because it aids in restoring the health of tissues. The best sources of protein are plant or animal
sources such as legumes, nuts, beans, soy,
eggs, lean meats, fish, and dairy products.