Protein deficiency can occur due to many problems. It could be a lack of protein in the body or defective metabolism of protein. Initially, there are no major signs and symptoms of protein deficiency. However, if protein deficiency prevails, it may suddenly increase the intensity of symptoms making them more visible. It is important to take care of the signs and symptoms of protein deficiency at the initial stage to avoid any kind of health issues. You should eat enough protein to overcome protein deficiency. Here are some symptoms that indicate the signs and symptoms of protein deficiency.
12 Surprising Signs of Protein Deficiency
- Swollen legs, face, hands, and abdomen
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of muscle mass
- Loss of hair
- Skin problems
- Chronic infections
- Brittle nails
- Stomach bloating
- Loss of bone mass
- Increase in fat mass
- Fatty liver
- Craving junk foods
What is Protein?
Protein is an essential part of our body. It is a crucial nutrient in our daily diet. A lack of or no intake of protein can cause serious health problems which can be difficult to deal with at times. Protein is a complex macronutrient that our body needs. It is present in plant-based products, particularly legumes, and high in animal-based products. Protein is made up of amino acids and is one of the building blocks of the body.
What is Protein Deficiency called?
Protein Deficiency is called hypoproteinemia which causes low levels of protein in the body. This condition affects around 1 billion people worldwide. Protein deficiency is prevalent among elderly people, particularly those over the age of 70. It causes lower levels of circulating protein in the blood, particularly the albumin, which results in this condition. Here’s a list of the group of individuals who need more protein.
- People over the age of 70
- Growing Children
- Vegetarians and vegans
As per a study, it is indicated that protein deficiency is seen mostly in vegetarian and plant-based eaters rather than meat-eaters or non-vegetarians. As long as you are consciously getting enough protein from a plant-based diet, you won’t be at risk for protein deficiency.
What are the best foods to correct Protein Deficiency?
Protein Deficiency can be treated and corrected by including protein-abundant foods in your diet. These include-
- Nuts and seeds
- Legumes and beans
- Eggs
- Milk and milk products
- Seafood such as fish and shrimp
- Whole grains
- Poultry such as chicken and turkey
- Cheese and paneer
Get started with your protein intake right away with healthy foods which can boost your protein metabolism and help correct your protein deficiency.
How much protein should I consume?
The average adult weighing 65 kgs should consume 0.8 gms of protein per kg of his body weight. For example, someone who weighs 68 kgs should rake 54 grams of protein daily.
If you are still confused about how much protein you should consume and whether you are metabolizing the protein in the right way, talk to our doctors at Life Force Homeopathy to help you resolve all your queries.
- Written by Dr. Rati, Associate doctor to Dr. Rajesh Shah
