Protein deficiency is a big issue as more than a million people worldwide suffer from the same. Protein deficiency is when the intake in your diet is unable to fulfil the body's needs. Protein deficiency is a significant problem with children in Central Africa and the South Asian region, wherein around 30% of the children face protein deficiency. If you are suffering from protein deficiency, then it is advised to use a daily protein intake calculator for the best results.
There are several ways you can spot protein deficiency. Mentioned below are eight signs and symptoms.
Edema:
Edema is a condition which is characterized by swollen and puffy skin. Due to the low amount of human serum, albumin edema is caused. The primary responsibility of albumin is to maintain the force for drawing fluid into the blood circulation. Edema is a result of severe protein deficiency and is generally found in underdeveloped countries.
Skin, hair, and nail problems:
Protein deficiency can be visible in nails, hair, and skin. The thinning of hair or faded color and hair loss are common symptoms of protein deficiency. Due to severe protein deficiency, the skin is affected, causing redness, flaky skin, and depigmentation. Also, due to protein deficiency, brittle nails and hair loss occurs.
Loss of Muscle Mass:
Muscles reserve protein in them, but protein deficiency then the body tales protein from the skeletal muscles. Due to this, over time muscle wasting takes place, which is not a good sign. Loss of muscle mass is a sign of inadequate protein intake. It is advised to use a protein intake calculator for the best results.
Fatty Liver:
If fats accumulated in the liver cells are left untreated, there can be several issues such as fatty liver disease, liver scarring, and inflammation. Fatty liver is one of the symptoms of kwashiorkor, especially in children. There are also chances of liver failure.
Greater chances of bone fracture:
Due to lack of protein, bones weaken and increase the chances of fractures. Studies show that taking protein sufficiently can reduce the risk of hip fractures in postmenopausal women. Protein is responsible for the bones' strength, and due to insufficiency, there are chances of lower bone mineral density and risk of fractures.
Stunted Growth in Children:
Protein is an essential element for body growth apart from maintaining muscle and bone mass. The daily protein requirement of individuals depends on their body and should be maintained for the best results. Insufficient intake of protein may result in a delay in growth in children.
Increased severity of infections:
Protein deficiency may affect the immune system severely. Low protein intake is a significant reason for impaired immune functioning. If you take less protein than required, it may restrain the body from combating infections such as the common cold.
Greater appetite and Calorie Intake:
When the protein intake is less, the body attempts to restore protein by increasing the appetite. At times of food shortages, a greater appetite is beneficial. This will result in weight gain and obesity when food is plentiful.
Conclusion:
The points mentioned above show protein deficiency reasons, which should be avoided to keep the body in the best shape. Keeping in mind the points mentioned above will help you combat protein deficiency.
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