Common Protein Deficiency Symptoms

Even with a wide variety of protein sources available, some people experience protein deficiency symptoms due to a lack of protein intake. Severely restrictive diets, lack of knowledge about nutrients, and even poverty can contribute to protein deficiency. Here are some of the most common symptoms:

• Lack of energy, no desire to do things
• General weakness and lethargy
• Fainting – weak feeling especially during or after a work out.
• Headache
• Thinning or brittle hair, hair loss
• Edema – A collection of fluid under the skin, which most commonly affects the legs, feet, and ankles, but can occur anywhere on the body.
• Weight issues
• Ridges or deep lines in finger and toe nails
• Skin becomes very light, burns easily in the sun
• Reduced pigmentation in the hair on scalp and body
• Skin rashes, dryness, flakiness
• Muscle soreness and weakness, cramps
• Slowness in healing wounds, cuts, scrapes, and bruises
• Bedsores and other skin ulcers
• Difficulty sleeping
• Nausea and stomach pain
• Crankiness, moodiness
• Severe depression
• Anxiety

• Legumes and beans
• Soy, mycoprotein and tofu products
• Nuts and seeds
• Sprouted seeds
• Whole grains
• Algae and seaweed

• Sprinkle nuts, seeds, or sprouts over salads and other dishes to boost protein.
• Most plant foods contain protein so eat your veggies!
• Add protein powder to shakes or smoothies. yum!

The amount of protein required by the body depends on the age, gender, weight, health and the activities that are performed by the individual. Children normally need around 0.5 gm per pound of body weight whereas adults require approximately 60gm of protein per day.  It is essential for every individual to have adequate amount of protein in their body to live a healthy life. You can monitor the daily protein intake by keeping track of the food you eat each day.