Bodies use protein for building and repairing tissue making it crucial for building bones, muscle, cartilage and skin. Since protein has an important role in helping the body perform efficiently, these warning signs of protein deficiency should be something to pay attention to.
1. Hair fall
Normal hair fall constitutes to about 100 strands a day, but anything beyond that may be an indication of a health issue. While hair fall may be due to hormonal changes, lack of protein from food may also be the culprit, according to Lady Care Health.
Bodies that do not get enough protein go into conservation mode and do not spend valuable protein to nourish the hair. Similarly, broken and brittle nails may also be a sign of protein deficiency.
2. Fatigue
Proteins help stabilize sugar levels in the body so protein deficiency can lead to low energy and reduced mental alertness. Muscles in the body are also not able to repair themselves due to the lack of protein allowing the body to become weaker.
3. Swollen eyes and hands
Being protein deficient can lower the plasma protein content in the blood which can eventually cause liver problems and trigger anemia. Swollen eyes and hands are mostly due the collection of fluid under the skin since protein plays an important role in maintaining water balance in the body.
4. Muscle weakness
The size of muscles also begins to decrease by cannibalizing its own tissue to meet muscle requirements when the body does not get enough protein from the diet. When the body lacks protein, it takes it from muscles wherever it can find it.
5. Low immune system
Protein is key to a strong immune system since it is the foundation of red blood cells, white blood cells and antibodies. All of these then work together to fight off viruses and bacteria in the body, Natural News reported.
6. Insomnia
Being deficient in protein will mean not being able to burn fat while sleeping since the body is accustomed to excess sugar and carbohydrates. When this happens, people experience insomnia by waking up every few hours feeling hungry due to the lack of protein.
Taking protein stabilizers may also help balance your protein when needed for your body, but make sure it is recommended by a physician
