Why protein is essential: What happens when you don’t get enough and who is at risk

Protein is one of the most vital nutrients required by the body. Nevertheless, protein's crucial nature to overall wellness is underestimated among many people. According to Harvard Medical School, protein helps in forming parts of the bone, muscle, skin, blood, and cartilage in the body and is essential for growth and maintenance of the body. Many people consider proteins to be nutrients that only athletes or those who go to the gym need. The truth is that proteins are needed by everyone, regardless of age or gender for good health.

Proteins help form and repair the body

Proteins consist of amino acids that are necessary for building muscles, repairing body tissues and assisting with the proper functioning of internal organs of the body. Proteins are also involved in regulating various body processes by producing enzymes and hormones. Due to these reasons, proteins are important, especially in growing children and people recuperating from any illness.

Not having enough proteins causes fatigue and a weak body

As per experts at Mayo Clinic, not eating enough protein can affect muscle mass and overall strength over time. When the body does not get adequate protein, which is roughly 0.4g per kilogram of body weight at each meal, it may begin using muscle tissue as an energy source, leading to weakness and fatigue. This can leave people feeling tired, less active, and unable to maintain their normal stamina. Low protein intake may also make simple physical activities feel more exhausting than usual.

It may cause problems with hair, skin, and healing

Protein is essential in the formation of healthy skin, hair and repairing wounds. Since proteins are required for the survival of the body, they are used in vital body functions, leaving other non-essential body functions, such as maintaining healthy hair and skin, without enough resources. This makes people to have problems such as brittle nails, hair loss, dry skin and delayed healing of wounds.

Not all people consume sufficient proteins

Older adults, growing children, teenagers, pregnant women, and people following restrictive diets may be at greater risk of not getting enough protein. Ageing adults may especially need more protein to help preserve muscle mass and prevent weakness. Additionally, people trying extreme diets or skipping meals regularly may unknowingly reduce their protein intake below healthy levels.

Consistent protein intake is crucial

Experts from Mayo Clinic say that protein should be consumed consistently during the day. Some of the protein-rich foods include fish, meat, eggs, legumes, poultry and dairy products.