Protein is essential for living; these five signs may signal a deficiency.
Protein is an absolutely vital part of our bodily functions every day. It’s important for both parents and children, and gives us the energy we need to combat the obstacles of the day-to-day, and the ability to build muscle, and get stronger.
So obviously a deficiency in protein is something you would want to address. Here are five signs that you need to include more protein in your diet. Take heed moms!
Food cravings: Protein evens out blood sugar highs and lows, so if you are constantly craving food between meals, it may signal that you need more protein.
Muscle and joint pain: If you experience muscle weakness and pain, or feel like your muscles have become flabby over time, your joint fluid may be breaking down to supplement a lack of protein.
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Slow recovery: If you were injured, but your body isn’t healing the way it should, you should up your protein intake. Protein helps heal and renew cells, so obviously its very important to the healing process.
Hair, skin, and nail problems: If your hair is thinning or falling out, your skin or nails are peeling, or you have ridges in your fingernails, it may be a sign that you need more meat! (Or tofu, if you are a vegetarian or vegan).
Fluid retention: If you experience Edema, or the accumulation of fluids, you may need to consider your protein levels, since it plays a part in keeping fluid from accumulating in the first place.
It isn’t that easy to become protein deficient, but the elderly, athletes, injured people, stressed people, and people who diet are especially at risk. So if you experience any of these symptoms, rethink your protein intake as a first step, because it may just solve your problem.
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