Proteins are body building elements required by the human body.

They provide the required energy for the body to function properly and are crucial for the development of muscles. Proteins also facilitate the development of nails, a healthy skin and promote hair growth. Protein deficiency has side effects and can lead to medical conditions.

Protein Deficiency Diseases

1. Marasmus

Young children and infants are vulnerable to consequences of lack of protein. Marasmus is a severe lack of important nutrients. Food4Africa notes that people affected by marasmus look frail and thin. This is a fatal disease that causes weight loss, and dehydration.
2. Kwashiorkor

Lack of proteins from carbohydrates sources like rice, yams, and bananas causes kwashiorkor. This is a severe malnutrition disease common in older children. The University of Maryland Medical center explains that symptoms of the illness include a swollen stomach due to fluid retention. It also has symptoms common to marasmus such as irritability, diarrhea, fatigue, limited growth and cognitive development as well as mental health.
3. Protein C and Protein S Deficiency

Research indicates that 1 in every 300 people suffers from the lack of Protein C. Similarly, Protein S deficiency affects 1 in 20,000 people. Medline Plus states that deficiency in Protein C & S is a hereditary disease leading to blood clotting. Such deficiencies are characterized by pain, redness, swelling and tenderness in the affected region. A 2009 research by A. Hoodain titled the Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology stated that Protein S deficiency causes ischemic stroke. Anyone affected by Protein diseases should avoid activities that tend to clot the blood. These include bed rest, sitting for a long time in cars, airplanes and transport systems.
4. Cachexia

A 2000 Research by Kotler D. P in the Annals of Internal Medicine explains that cachexia is a disease that causes the weakening of the skeletal muscles and reduction of protein. An

article by JE Morley in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that the condition can be fatal. It is associated with chronic diseases like AIDS, cancer, chronic kidney failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and rheumatoid arthritis. It leads to weight loss and could also lead to death. Reduced protein intake is common in patients suffering cancers of the colon, stomach, liver, pancreas and biliary tract. The reduction of calories and micronutrients leads to fatigue and the negative nitrogen balance. J. Ockenga in his 2005 article in Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics highlights that the loss of muscles in cachexia is due to this reduced protein intakes.

Protein Deficiency Symptoms

Lack of Protein has signs and symptoms depicted in the body changes. In case you experience any of the symptoms or you notice someone with the signs, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention. Some of these symptoms include:

Weak and sore muscles Increased water retention Flakiness, dry skin and rashes Lethargy Weight loss Anxiety Nausea Skin ulcers Bed sores

Deep line formations around the toes and nails Stubborn wounds that do not heal Constant headaches Insomnia Moody feelings Blackouts Depression Skin color changes