How may a lack of proteins affect a person?
The Bottom Line Serious protein deficiency can cause swelling, fatty liver, skin degeneration, increase the severity of infections and stunt growth in children. While true deficiency is rare in developed countries, low intake may cause muscle wasting and increase the risk of bone fractures.
What are the side effects of not enough protein in the diet?
Signs and symptoms of protein deficiency
- Skin, hair and nail problems.
- Loss of muscle mass.
- Increased risk of bone fractures.
- Bigger appetite and increased calorie intake.
- Risk of infections.
- Fatty liver.
- May inhibit proper body growth in children.
Which disease is caused by a lack of proteins in the diet?
What Is Kwashiorkor? Kwashiorkor, also known as “edematous malnutrition” because of its association with edema (fluid retention), is a nutritional disorder most often seen in regions experiencing famine. It is a form of malnutrition caused by a lack of protein in the diet.
Why protein is important in our body?
Every cell in the human body contains protein. The basic structure of protein is a chain of amino acids. You need protein in your diet to help your body repair cells and make new ones. Protein is also important for growth and development in children, teens, and pregnant women.
What does a lack of protein cause?
Weakness and Fatigue And over time, a lack of protein can make you lose muscle mass, which in turn cuts your strength, makes it harder to keep your balance, and slows your metabolism. It can also lead to anemia, when your cells don’t get enough oxygen, which makes you tired.
How does lack of protein affect the body?
Tissue Breakdown. Over time, insufficient protein in your diet leads to a breakdown of your tissue. Since your cells cannot rely on your diet to supply the amino acids needed for protein synthesis, your body begins to break down existing proteins as a source of amino acids. As a result, prolonged protein deficiency leads to tissue loss,…
What are the symptoms of a low protein diet?
Last, individuals with conditions that cause malabsorption of nutrients, such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and tropical sprue, may become deficient in protein. According to MedlinePlus, early, low-protein symptoms include fatigue, lethargy and irritability.
What happens to your hair if you have a protein deficiency?
Dry, sparse hair that falls out easily or changes color or texture is a sign of low protein intake. Hair contains 90 percent protein. Protein deficiency results in thinning hair or hair loss.
What to do if you have a protein deficiency?
If you find yourself experiencing any of these signs of protein deficiency, take a closer look at your diet, and also see your health care professional. Your doctor can order a protein deficiency test, known as a plasma protein test, to check your protein levels. This way you can find out if low protein is causing your symptoms.