Protein Deficiency

What is protein

Protein constitutes about 20 percent of the human body and is present in every single cell. Proteins

are considered as the workhorses of life as they do a vast array of functions. An adequate supply

of proteins in the daily diet is essential for normal growth and development and for the

maintenance of health.

Simply, proteins are macromolecules composed of amino acids. Amino acids are commonly

called protein’s building blocks joined by peptide bonds. Besides carbon, hydrogen and oxygen

atoms like carbohydrates and lipids, proteins also contain additional element nitrogen and in some

cases sulphur atoms. Unlike carbohydrates and lipids, proteins are made according to instructions

provided by our genetic material, DNA.

Deficiency of proteins

▪ Hamper tissue building and repair;

▪ Loss appetite, and weight;

▪ Delay in wounds healing;

▪ Fatigue, muscle weakness;

▪ Acidosis or alkalosis

▪ Thin hair, weak nails and decrease libido

▪ A general deficiency of calories (proteins, carbs and fats) known as marasmus characterized 

by severe muscle wasting, arms and legs become very thin; 

▪ Kwashiorkor due to sudden or recent lack of protein-containing food (such as during a 

famine) characterized by edema, painful skin lesions, and changes in the pigmentation of 

skin and hair. The mortality rate for kwashiorkor patients is high.