 |
| pexels.com |
WE NEED WELLNESS - Do you often feel exhausted after work? Do you frequently get sick even though you rarely go out? If so, it may be a sign that your body is lacking in protein. According to several sources, protein deficiency can significantly impact your health. Before discussing the symptoms of protein deficiency, let's first understand what protein is and its functions.
What is Protein?
Simply put, protein is a nutrient that the body needs to build almost every cell, including muscles, skin, lungs, and more. Protein requirements vary for each person depending on age and gender. For example, a man aged 18-25 with a body weight of 70 kg needs about 56 grams of protein per day.
Functions of Protein
In addition to being a crucial component of almost all cells, here are some key functions of protein according to several sources:
1. Formation and Repair of Tissue
If key components like muscles and skin are damaged, protein helps repair these tissues and support their growth.
2. Immune System Support
Protein also helps fight infections and diseases, thereby maintaining a healthy immune system.
3. Energy Source
Although not the primary energy source, protein can be broken down into glucose to produce energy.
 |
| pexels.com |
Protein is vital and necessary for the body. But what happens if the body lacks protein? According to Healthline, a 2013 study on male athletes performing high-intensity workouts showed that participants who consumed low-protein diets were more susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections. However, further research is needed to explore the relationship between protein and infections.
Based on the study, protein deficiency can have adverse effects on health. Therefore, it is important to recognize the signs early on.
5 Signs of Protein Deficiency
1. Weakened Immune System
Are you easily prone to illness? If so, you might be lacking in protein. This is because there is nothing to fight off the infections in your body. If you experience this, consider consuming high-protein foods.
According to Healthline, consuming high-protein foods can help form antibodies. These antibodies are produced by white blood cells to combat infections. Additionally, protein plays a role in strengthening muscles so you don’t easily feel fatigued or lethargic at work.
2. Hair Loss
We've all experienced hair loss despite frequent washing. However, several sources indicate that hair loss is a primary sign of protein deficiency. For instance, protein deficiency affects hair growth, causing hair loss, known as telogen effluvium, according to Healthline.
Other sources explain that hair is made up of a protein called keratin. Keratin is a structural protein that forms the outer layer of the skin and hair. This protein also provides smooth texture and strength to hair. When the body lacks protein, hair will produce weak keratin.
Moreover, protein deficiency can also lead to visible signs of hair damage and abnormal structure. According to The Independent Pharmacy, here are the signs:
- Thinning or sparse areas on the scalp
- Increased shedding and hair loss
- Lack of elasticity and dry, brittle strands
- Split ends and breakage
- Slow growth
- Loss of shine and luster
Recognizing these signs can help you identify protein deficiency early, so you can take action before hair loss becomes severe.
 |
| pexels.com |
3. Skin Damage
Another sign of protein deficiency is dry and scaly skin. Have you ever taken a bath and noticed scaly patches on your skin? This is an early sign of protein deficiency. According to WebMD, the cause of skin damage is a low-protein diet.
4. Fatigue
Feeling tired after activities is normal. However, protein deficiency can make it difficult to maintain balance and slow down metabolism. According to WebMD, research indicates that a person who doesn’t consume protein for a week can experience muscle impact, especially those aged 55 and older. Additionally, this can cause anemia, a condition where body cells don’t get enough oxygen, leading to fatigue.
5. Mood Swings
Have you ever experienced sudden mood swings? This is a sign of protein deficiency. According to WebMD, neurotransmitters are chemicals that regulate brain function. If you lack protein, the body cannot produce enough neurotransmitters, affecting brain function and causing feelings of depression and aggression.
 |
| pexels.com |
These are the five signs to watch out for. If you wonder whether consuming large amounts of protein is okay, the answer is that it can lead to kidney function decline. So, you should consume protein in moderation, not excessively.
When choosing food, ensure it contains protein to maintain your health. However, also pay attention to your protein intake to avoid overburdening your kidneys. Have you ever experienced any of these five signs?
