How does your body use the protein once it has been ingested? Consider the following statements and select the correct ones regarding protein use.

Question

Select all that apply.
• View Available Hint(s)
• The liver uses amino acids to create glucose.
• If you ingest more protein than your body needs, the protein is stored in muscle.
• If calorie intake is inadequate, amino acids can be used for production of energy.

Answer 1

When considering how the body uses protein after ingestion, the following statements are correct:

1. The liver uses amino acids to create glucose. - This is true; the liver can convert certain amino acids into glucose through a process called gluconeogenesis, especially when carbohydrate intake is low.

2. If you ingest more protein than your body needs, the protein is stored in muscle. - This statement is misleading. While excess amino acids can be used for muscle protein synthesis, they cannot be stored in the same way carbohydrates and fats are. Excess protein is broken down, and any surplus is converted to energy or stored as fat, not specifically stored in muscle.

3. If calorie intake is inadequate, amino acids can be used for production of energy. - This is true; when caloric intake is low, the body can use amino acids for energy production through gluconeogenesis or by entering the Krebs cycle.

So, the correct statements regarding the use of protein in the body are:

• The liver uses amino acids to create glucose.
• If calorie intake is inadequate, amino acids can be used for production of energy.