Your body relies on proteins in order to produce hormones, build muscle and create enzymes that help to produce energy, according to the World's Healthiest Foods. With all of these important functions, it's understandable that a lack of protein in your diet can result in adverse effects. If you are not consuming the recommended daily allowance of 0.8 grams of protein for every kilogram of body weight, your protein levels may be low, according to Georgetown University.
Easily Fatigued
Proteins are responsible for ensuring chemical reactions that produce energy in the body. Without enough protein, your body may not have access to energy to perform needed functions. This can leave you feeling easily fatigued, according to Georgetown University. You may find you do not have the stamina or energy to perform activities you once did with ease.
Decreased Muscle Mass
Protein is the building block for your muscle tissue. Without it, your muscle fibers cannot grow and may begin to decrease, according to the Better Health Channel. If you are dieting and notice a loss in muscle mass, you may need to increase your protein intake.
Weakening of Cardiac and Respiratory Systems
The muscles you use to lift and move objects are not the only muscles in your body. You also rely on muscle in the heart and lungs. Heart muscle keeps the blood pumping throughout your body while lung muscles move dirt, bacteria and other harmful particles through your system in order to clean them and reduce damage. Protein is require to strengthen these muscles--without it, your heart and lungs may become weakened.
Malnutrition
Insufficient intake of protein can lead to malnutrition symptoms, a condition that most commonly occurs in impoverished countries. This malnutrition can cause a lowered immune system, which results in a 40 percent mortality rate for malnourished children, according to The World's Healthiest Foods, a website produced by the non-profit George Mateljan Foundation. A condition known as kwashiorkor can develop in children younger than age 4 who do not consume enough protein. Harmful symptoms include swelling, an enlarged liver and muscle wasting. Without enough protein, these children are not able to grow as they normally would.
