Page:800 proved pecan recipes- their place in the menu (IA 0519PECA).pdf/24



The protein ration has been established and satisfactorily proved to be adequate at a much lower level than formerly thought necessary. From infancy to maturity, protein is required for both growth and repair of tissues. After maturity, protein is required only for repair. Food taken in excess of the needs of the body to repair waste tissues, to furnish energy for work, and warmth, is a wasteful burden to the body and a handicap to normal functioning. Excess carbohydrates and fats are stored as body fat.

Proteins are not stored in the body, but are used only as required to build or repair tissue, the excess being eliminated by the kidneys—and it is this necessity for eliminating excess protein in the average diet which overtaxes the kidneys and liver. Daily protein requirement is established by Sherman at one calory per pound of normal body weight. For the average person this means from 1½ to 2 ounces of protein daily—a much smaller amount than the average consumption.