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Protein is a crucial component of a well-balanced diet. It comprises diverse chemical compounds known as amino acids, the fundamental ‘building blocks.’ Amino acids play a significant role in constructing and maintaining tissues and synthesizing enzymes and hormones. Additionally, they are essential for developing bones, blood, skin, cartilage, and muscles. Protein is integral for energy metabolism and cellular processes, and it supports the body’s immune system in warding off illnesses. Furthermore, protein can also serve as a source of energy. Overall, protein stands as the cornerstone of maintaining optimal health.
What is protein deficiency, and who is most at risk?
Protein deficiency, or hypoalbuminemia, is characterized by insufficient proteins or one or more essential amino acids in the body. On the other hand, protein turnover is a term used to describe the equilibrium between the breakdown and synthesis of proteins within the body’s cells. This process is essential for maintaining overall protein balance and ensuring proper bodily function (Bernát, 2012) (Hawkins, 1985). Individuals who consume sufficient protein often need help maintaining a well-balanced diet. This is especially true for elderly individuals (Baum et al., 2016) and those battling cancer who may encounter difficulties meeting their required protein intake (Pearlstone et al., 1995) (Horstman & Sheffield-Moore, 2015). In cases of severe protein deficiency, a condition known as kwashiorkor can develop, leading to significant malnutrition. Research indicates that the adverse functional impact of such protein insufficiency includes a weakened immune response, consequently heightening the susceptibility and seriousness of illnesses within a particularly vulnerable population: women and children (Keller, 1988).
Ten Signs and Symptoms of Protein Deficiency
- Edema: Nutritional edema, or protein-energy malnutrition, is edema caused by low plasma protein levels (Liu et al., 1931).
- Skin, hair, and nail problems: Protein deficiencies can lead to various issues with hair, nails, and skin.
- Loss of muscle mass: Over time, insufficient intake of dietary protein can lead to a condition known as muscle wasting or muscle atrophy.
- Fatty liver: Kwashiorkor is a severe form of acute malnutrition that can increase fat in liver cells, a condition known as fatty liver.
- Mood Changes: The human brain relies on neurotransmitters, chemical messengers responsible for transmitting information between cells.
- Appetite/Hunger: Dietary protein is known to be more filling than carbohydrates and fats.
- Weakness and Fatigue: Studies indicate that even a week of insufficient protein intake can notably impact the muscles supporting posture and movement.
- Slower Healing Process: Protein deficiency is shown to slow the healing process, reduce collagen formation, and cause wound splitting.
- Getting and Staying Sick: Kwashiorkor is a disease recognized by healthcare providers worldwide as one of the main types of severe protein-energy undernutrition.
- Bone Health: A sufficient amount of protein is essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance for Protein for Different Demographic Groups
In 1941, the US National Research Council set the first Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for protein, energy, and eight essential vitamins and minerals at the behest of the National Defence Advisory Commission (Murphy et al., 2016). The RDAs represent the average daily intake of nutrients necessary to meet the needs of most healthy individuals in a specific group (97 to 98 percent). These guidelines ensure that people obtain adequate nutrition for good health and well-being (Institute of Medicine (US) Food and Nutrition Board, 1998).
Public Protein RDA: The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is set at a modest level of 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, equivalent to about 0.36 grams per pound of body weight.
Athletes/Active People Protein RDA: Research indicates that physically active individuals should consume approximately 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (0.5 to 0.9 grams per pound).
Elderly Protein RDA: Protein is essential for elderly adults, as experts recommend a protein intake between 1.2 and 2.0 grams per kilogram of body weight per day or even higher. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein is set at 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day, considerably lower than the recommended intake levels.
