A lack of protein in your diet can cause a number of symptoms, including irritability. Proteins are necessary for every part of the human body. Protein from your diet is broken down into amino acids and later used to replace the proteins in your body. Although relatively rare in the United States, a protein deficiency can cause serious health problems. Consult your physician if you are concerned that you are deficient in protein.
Protein Deficiency
Protein deficiency is a condition that occurs when there is not enough protein in the diet. It is a rare condition in the United States among children and usually indicates child neglect. It is usually found in places that are dealing with famine and limited food supply. However, according to the National Institutes of Health, up to 50 percent of the elderly population in nursing homes in the United States may not get enough protein in their diet.
Symptoms of Protein Deficiency
Children who are protein deficient will not be able to gain weight and grow. In children and adults without enough protein, you may notice a change in skin pigment or a change in hair color. Protein deficiencies can also lead to decreased or loss of muscle mass, fatigue, lethargy and diarrhea. A weakened immune system causes an increase in the number and severity of infections. A protruding belly is a sign of protein deficiency. Later stages of protein deficiency include shock.
Irritability and Protein
Irritability is also a sign of a protein deficiency. Research has linked specific proteins to mood. A study published in the journal “Science” found that mice that were protein deficient exhibited depression-like behavior, including irritability. The researchers also found that raising protein levels acted as an antidepressant. Although it is unclear how protein affects the mood, researchers suggest that protein affects the neurotransmitter serotonin, which has been linked to mood disorders and anxiety.
Recommendations
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that 10 to 35 percent of your daily caloric intake comes from protein. The Recommended daily allowance, or RDA, for protein in women over the age of 19 is 46 g a day. For adult men, the RDA is 56 g a day. Protein is found in a number of animal and plant sources. Vegetarians and vegans should ensure that they receive enough protein from plant based sources, such as legumes.
