From Edema to Decreased Immunity, Here are the Impacts of Protein Deficiency on Your Body

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Protein is one of the nutrients that have an important role in the health of the human body. Protein serves to produce, restore, and oxidize the body and plays an essential role in creating enzymes that digest food. Protein is also an important part of hormone production and regulation.

According to HealthifyMe, the recommended amount of protein intake to the body for healthy adults with minimal physical activity is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. Several studies have also found that people need to increase their protein intake as they age.

Based on the recommendation, the body needs to meet its protein intake. Protein deficiency can cause various complications in the body, ranging from various diseases that result in nervous system deficiencies, metabolic issues, organ failure, and even death. Here are the effects of protein deficiency:

1. Edema

According to Healthline, Edema is indicated by swollen skin. This is due to the low amount of Serum albumin in the body due to protein deficiency. This condition reduces oncotic pressure that causes fluid builds in the tissues and causes swelling. Lack of protein can cause a buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity, usually characterized by flatulence.

2. Low muscle mass

According to Verywellfit, protein is very important for maintenance and muscle growth. Protein deficiency causes muscle weakening over time or referred to as sarcopenia among the elderly. Protein requirements for adults increase after the age of 70 and exercise is also necessary to help maintain muscle.

3. Dry and brittle on hair, nails and skin

Cited from Self, hair loss may indicate iron metabolism status, which is a common micronutrient deficiency resulting from a lack of consuming protein foods, especially meat and legumes. Protein deficiency also causes brittle nails and dry skin.

4. Decreased immunity

Immunoglobulins or antibodies consist of glycoproteins which are responsible for killing bacteria and fighting other foreign bacteria. Cited from HealthifyMe, a decline in protein can cause repeated bacterial infections such as pneumonia, otitis meningitis, and osteomyelitis. It's no secret that reduced protein intake degrades immune function.

NAOMY AYU NUGRAHENI | IMAJI LASAHIDO (INTERN)

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