What Happens to Your Body if You Don’t Eat Enough Protein?

The body needs protein for many different essential functions. It is used to build and repair tissues, make enzymes and hormones, and act as a carrier for nutrients throughout the body. Protein is also a key component of the immune system. Without enough protein, the body cannot properly repair itself, leading to several health problems.

WHAT IS PROTEIN AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

Protein is a macronutrient that is essential to the human diet. It is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of the human body. Protein is important for many different functions in the body, including cell growth and repair, muscle growth and repair, and hormone production.

WHAT ARE SOME SIGNS OF NOT GETTING ENOUGH PROTEIN? 

You’ll feel tired all the time

If you’re not getting enough protein, you may find yourself feeling fatigued more often than usual. This is because proteins are responsible for transporting oxygen to our cells, and when we don’t have enough of them, our cells don’t get the oxygen they need to function properly. 

Protein is also essential for the production of ATP, which is responsible for supplying energy to our cells. So if you’re not getting enough protein, your cells won’t have the energy they need to function properly, leading to that sluggish feeling.

You’ll lose muscle mass

Protein is responsible for the growth and maintenance of our muscle mass. So if you’re not getting enough protein, you may start to lose muscle mass. This can be especially problematic because as we age since we naturally start to lose muscle mass. Eating a diet that’s high in protein can help offset this age-related muscle loss.

You may experience dental issues

Protein is essential for the production of saliva, which helps keep our mouths healthy by washing away bacteria and food particles. If you’re not getting enough protein, you may find yourself with a dry mouth or bad breath since there’s not enough saliva to keep your mouth healthy. You may also be at a higher risk for cavities and gum disease since a lack of saliva can lead to an increase in plaque buildup on your teeth. 

You could develop anemia

Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in our blood. When we don’t have enough iron, we can develop anemia, and that can make us feel tired and weak since our cells aren’t getting the oxygen they need. One way to get iron is through red meat, which is also high in protein. 

You could develop osteoporosis 

Protein is essential for the formation of new bone tissue. When we don’t have enough protein, our bones can become weak and porous, putting us at a higher risk for fractures and osteoporosis. This is especially important as we age since we naturally start to lose bone density as we get older. Eating a diet that’s high in protein can help offset this age-related bone loss. 

WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF NOT GETTING ENOUGH PROTEIN?

The consequences of not getting enough protein can be serious, as shown above. Muscle weakness and wasting can lead to injuries and decreased mobility. A weakened immune system can lead to illnesses and infections. Hormone production can be decreased, which can impact mood, energy levels, and metabolism.

HOW CAN YOU MAKE SURE YOU’RE GETTING ENOUGH PROTEIN?

The best way to make sure you’re getting enough protein is to eat a balanced diet that includes protein-rich foods like meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy, beans, nuts, and seeds. You can also get protein from supplements, which you can buy separately. Protein can also be ingested in different forms like protein snacks, snack bars, powder, and other treats. Protein bars are a relatively easy way to add some protein to your diet or a meal. However, it’s always best to try to get a majority of your nutrients from food first.

BE SURE YOU’RE EATING A PROTEIN-RICH DIET

Protein is an essential part of the human diet. Without enough protein, the body cannot properly repair itself, leading to several health problems. Eating a balanced diet that includes high-protein foods is the best way to make sure you’re getting enough of the essential nutrient.