Protein is a nutrient your body needs to maintain the structure of tissues and to make antibodies. Some proteins function as transporters, hormones and as enzymes in a large array of biochemical reactions. Most people get enough protein from their diets. A protein insufficiency, or deficiency, is called protein-energy undernutrition, or PEU.
Protein Requirements
According to the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institutes of Medicine, the recommended dietary allowance, RDA, for protein is based on 1.5 g/kg per day for infants, 1.1 g/kg per day for children ages 1 to 3, 0.95 g/kg per day for children ages 4 to 13, 0.85 g/kg per day for teens ages 14 to 18, 0.8 g/kg per day for adults and 1.1 g/kg per day for pregnant and nursing women. Most adult males need 56 g per day and adult females need 46 g per day.
PEU
Protein-energy undernutrition is common among institutionalized elderly people, according to an article published in "The Merck Manual." Children in developing countries are more likely to be affected. Symptoms can be general or they can involve specific organs. Treatment usually involves feeding by mouth, avoiding lactose in some cases, and general supportive care. Other nutritional deficiencies may also need to be treated.
Primary PEU
Primary PEU is caused by inadequate nutrient intake and occurs most often in children and elderly people who can't get to food. Depression is also a common cause of primary PEU in the elderly. Primary PEU in children has two forms: kwashiorkor and marasmus. Marasmus, also known as dry PEU, is more common and causes weight loss as well as loss of muscle and fat. Kwashiorkor, or wet PEU, occurs when children eat foods with very small amounts of protein. Their cell membranes leak, resulting in peripheral edema.
Secondary PEU
Secondary PEU can occur after certain diseases or drug use. Disorders that interfere with digestion, absorption or lymphatic drainage can cause PEU. Wasting disorders such as cancer and renal failure can cause PEU due to anorexia or increased rate of calories burned. Infections, hyperthyroidism, pheochromocytoma, endocrine disorders and trauma can also cause PEU. A doctor can determine if a person has PEU.
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