Question

what happens to excess proteins in the body? group of answer choices they are used for fuel. it results in greater urea production, potentially leading to dehydration. they are converted and stored as fat. all of these are correct.

Answer 1

Excess proteins in the body are not stored; they are metabolized into amino acids and used to synthesize new proteins or converted into glucose, ketones, or triglycerides. The nitrogenous waste from amino acid decomposition, such as urea, is processed by the urea cycle and excreted in urine by the kidneys to prevent toxicity.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the body encounters excess proteins, these proteins are not stored as proteins for later use. Instead, they undergo a metabolic process to be repurposed. Proteins are hydrolyzed into amino acids, which are then used in a variety of metabolic pathways. Most notably, amino acids can be used for the synthesis of new proteins, converted into glucose or ketones, or decomposed. When decomposed, the hydrocarbons can be used as a fuel source, while the nitrogenous part is processed into urea through the urea cycle and then excreted by the kidneys.

During periods of excess, proteins may also be converted into triglycerides and stored as body fat. This process ensures that the nitrogenous waste does not accumulate to toxic levels. For example, during digestion, nitrogen from proteins ends up in urea, which if not efficiently excreted due to kidney malfunction, could lead to uremia. Urea is also directly related to the amount of protein intake, as reducing protein intake can lower urea output in urine.