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Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making it crucial for maintaining overall health. Here are the signs that clearly indicate a lack of protein in your body
Protein deficiency not only affects the body’s energy levels but also impacts hair, skin, immunity, and hormones. (News18 Hindi)
Many of us believe we are consuming a healthy diet, but we often overlook a vital nutrient, protein. According to dietitian Surabhi Gupta, protein deficiency not only affects the body’s energy levels but also impacts hair, skin, immunity, and hormones.
Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making it crucial for maintaining overall health. Here are the signs that clearly indicate a lack of protein in your body:
Hair Fall and Weak Nails
One of the first signs is excessive hair fall and brittle nails. If your hair is falling rapidly or your nails break easily, it could be due to insufficient protein in your diet. Protein is responsible for the production of keratin, an essential component for healthy hair and nails. A deficiency can lead to hair becoming thin, lifeless, and weak.
Constant Fatigue and Lethargy
When your diet lacks adequate protein, your body struggles to maintain energy levels. As a result, you may frequently feel tired, even after a full night’s sleep. Your skin may appear dry, dull, and irritated. Protein plays a key role in skin cell regeneration, and a deficiency can make your skin look prematurely aged.
Slow Post-Workout Recovery
If you work out but experience prolonged muscle soreness or slow recovery, it may indicate a protein deficiency. Protein helps repair muscles and supports muscle growth. It also keeps you feeling full for longer. Without enough protein, you may feel hungry more often and crave sugar, which can lead to overeating and weight gain.
Weakened Immune System
Surabhi Gupta explains that protein is crucial for strengthening the body’s immune response. A deficiency can make you more susceptible to illnesses such as colds or infections. Unexplained muscle loss or persistent weakness can be signs of inadequate protein intake.
Hormonal Imbalance
Protein is also involved in hormone production. A lack of protein may lead to irregular menstrual cycles or symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
How to Meet Your Protein Requirements?
To combat protein deficiency, include foods like eggs, lentils, paneer (cottage cheese), milk, chicken, fish, tofu, soya, nuts, and seeds in your diet. Vegetarians should opt for multi-source plant-based proteins and ensure they incorporate some protein into every meal. If necessary, consult a doctor or a certified nutritionist.
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