Protein is primarily not used as a direct energy source in the body. Instead, its main roles include building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. However, when the body is low on carbohydrates and fats, it can convert amino acids from protein into glucose through a process called gluconeogenesis. This means that while protein can provide energy, it is not typically considered a short-term or long-term energy source in the same way carbohydrates and fats are.
For most people, carbohydrates serve as the first line of energy, offering quick fuel, while fats are used for longer-duration activities. Protein, on the other hand, should be prioritized for growth and maintenance rather than as a primary energy source. In cases where the body is in a state of starvation or extreme endurance, it may begin to use protein for energy. So, while protein can provide energy, it’s more accurate to say that it’s not a primary energy source in our diets.