Protein is an essential part of the human diet. It's vital for maintaining the immune system; building muscles; making blood cells, hormones, and enzymes; and healing from injuries, according to the University of New Hampshire.
Proper protein intake depends on a person's weight. To determine how much protein a person needs, divide the weight in pounds by 2.2 to determine the weight in kilograms. Then multiply that number by 0.8. The resulting number is the recommended daily protein intake in grams. Significant protein deficiencies are rare in the United States, but are more prevalent in undeveloped nations, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Fatigue
A diet lacking in protein can cause a person to feel fatigued or lethargic, according to Net Wellness, a service of the University of Cincinnati, Ohio State University and Case Western Reserve University.
Frequent Illness
People who do not consume enough protein also may suffer from frequent or recurring illnesses and infections such as colds, according to the University of New Hampshire.
Wound Healing
Eating a diet that is deficient in protein can make it difficult for the body to heal from wounds or other injuries, according to Net Wellness. You may notice that cuts and scrapes are taking longer than usual to heal, or you may feel as though your body does not recover as quickly from a workout or other physical exertion.
Edema
Not eating enough protein can also result in edema, or swelling, according to Net Wellness. The swelling is the result of fluid accumulation, and it is most common in the abdomen, feet and hands.
Kwashiorkor
A medical condition called kwashiokor can develop in children with a severe protein deficiency. It's a form of malnutrition that is most common in undeveloped nations where lack of food is a problem, according to the National Institutes of Health. In the United States, kwashiorkor is extremely rare and is usually a sign of neglect or abuse. Signs of kwashiorkor include a decrease in muscle mass, a protruding belly, diarrhea, changes in skin coloring, failure to grow and thrive and changes to hair color and texture.
Marasmus
Marasmus is another medical condition that develops because of extreme protein deficiency. Marasmus is a state of starvation in which both protein and calorie intake are severely limited, according to Merck. It is most common in babies and other young children, although breastfeeding can prevent the condition. However, infants can develop marasmus if they are not breastfed and given heavily diluted infant formula instead. Signs of marasmus include weight loss, dehydration, loss of fat stores, weakness and fatigue.
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