Proteins crucial role in the body

Amino acids in the body

Proteins are composed of amino acids and are the most functionally diverse molecules in the body. Proteins act as antibodies, binding to foreign particles like viruses and bacteria, enzymes, carrying out chemical reactions in cells and they form new molecules by reading DNA. Proteins also play a role in hormones, structure/growth/repair of bone, muscles and cells, movement in muscle, neurotransmitters and help shuttle essential molecules.

Protein deficiency

Protein is stored in our muscles, with insufficient protein intake, our body takes protein from muscle resulting in loss and/or weakening of muscle. This can be found even in people with moderate protein insufficiency, especially elderly people. Reduction of calcium is also seen in people with protein deficiency, altering structure and resulting in weak bones. In a study of post-menopausal woman, it was found that increased protein intake reduced the risk of hip fractures¹,²

Hair, skin and nails contain protein, may see the structure of these compromised in protein deficiency.  Weight loss paired with feeling weak may also be a sign one isn’t getting adequate protein.

1. Samonds KW, Hegsted DM. Protein deficiency and energy restriction in young cebus monkeys. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1978;75(3):1600-1604.
2. 8 Signs and Symptoms of Protein Deficiency. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/protein-deficiency-symptoms. Published October 31, 2017. Accessed October 9, 2018.