6 signs that represent protein deficiency in your body (A HEALTHY CHECK)

How to know if our body lacks protein or not? Got this question bothering you? It’s time to put an end to all your concerns and troubles. Protein comes under one of the most required nutrients by our body. Our body requires this compound for carrying out several processes. This makes its deficiency identification very important. Many a time it becomes difficult to bring it to the light.

IMPORTANCE OF PROTEIN IN OUR BODY

Before looking for signs of its deficiency it becomes mandatory to be aware of the importance it holds in our body’s functioning. This acts as the building block of our system. It not only plays a major role in building new cells but it also helps in repairing the old ones. It even produces 10-15% of the energy required by our body. This might have made you realize the importance it holds in our healthy living. It constitutes the second most found component in our body after water. Our muscles hold 43% of it, our skin 15% and our blood 16%.

THE SIGNS FOR PROTEIN DEFICIENCY

This has been termed as a rare deficiency generally found in people with constrained diet or medication. However, its identification must be done on time. Here we are with 6 signs that will you spot its deficiency.

REDUCED MUSCLE MASS

Reduction in muscle mass has been considered the most prominent sign of protein deficiency. When we reduce the intake of protein our body finds a way out to get the desired quantity for performing several activities. It starts sucking protein from our muscles. If this continues over time then our muscle mass gets reduced. Hence, this makes protein consumption essential or else it will lead to weak muscles with minimal muscle mass.

SKIN, HAIR AND NAIL PROBLEMS

Many a time protein deficiency leads to several skin issues, hair fall and brittle nails. As we know proteins are the build the basic structure of our body. They not only construct the cells but also repair, maintain and help in their growth. Proteins contain biotin. These are responsible for healthy nails, skin and hair. Thus, the deficiency of this is often identified by lustreless, weak hair, reddened skin or soft nails.

INCREASED APPETITE

Has your appetite increased suddenly? Do you crave for sweet dishes? These might be a signal for protein deficiency. A person experiences frequent hunger strokes when the body lacks this compound. Most of the times it makes you crave for sweet dishes. This makes you want to have something sweet now and then. This urge can only be satisfied by consuming protein in adequate amount. If you don’t consume it in the required quantity, you will always be hungry leading to higher calorie intake.

WEAK IMMUNE SYSTEM

Protein deficiency often adversely affects our immunity. Proteins contain amino acids. These play a vital role in fighting against diseases. Lack of amino acids often enhances the chances of getting attacked by a virus. Whey protein does wonders in strengthening our immune system. Glutathione production accelerates itself on the presence of whey protein. Glutathione comes into the category of antioxidants that not only prevent diseases but also guides other antioxidants of the defence system.

WEAKENED BONES

Do you experience fractures even on minor injuries? Well, with an agreeing answer your troubles have increased. Proteins are the building block of our body. So, proteins play a major role in maintaining the strength of our bones. With protein deficiency our bones become weak. This opens the door to fractures.

EXAGGERATED INJURY HEALING DURATION

Have you noticed that your wounds take longer time heal lately? This might be a sign of protein deficiency. Proteins not only help in building cells but they also serve a major role in their recovery. Thus, with a decreased level of this nutrient, our wounds take longer time to heal. So, it becomes mandatory to consume this in the desired quantity, or else it will slow down the recovery process of injuries.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/protein-deficiency-symptoms

BOTTOM LINE

Protein is the building block of our body. From forming our cells to recovering injuries it is needed in everything. An adult must consume 0.6 grams of protein per kilogram of their body weight. Several foods like milk, cereals, cheese, curd, meat and fish contain a high proportion of protein. However, a person must pay attention to the consumption of a balanced diet. Along with protein, several other nutrients show high requirement by our body such as carbohydrates, calcium, fats, vitamins, etc.