Credit: Unsplash

Should You Be Consuming More Protein? Here’s How You Can Tell

Protein is one of the best things you can eat and is essential for keeping your body working properly. It’s responsible for building and maintaining strong connective tissues throughout your body. Proteins are also necessary for brain function, creativity, memory, and more. There’s no doubt that having enough protein in your diet would be beneficial for just about every aspect of your life. However, how do you know if you don’t have enough protein? Protein requirements vary depending on the person as well as the way they want their body to function.

Low energy

It doesn’t take much to put you out of energy. You may wake up tired and lack motivation. You may feel sluggish and bloated. This tells you that there isn’t enough energy available in your body to compensate for the nutrients your body needs. Eating more protein can help you obtain more energy.

Weak immunity

Protein malnutrition impairs the body’s ability to fight off illness and performance decline. It leads to a weakened immune system that may then support bacterial or viral infections. In the last decade, there has been an explosion of research supporting the importance of adequate protein intake for all populations.

Hair loss

Is your hair thin and fine? Does it fall out easily? If so, this is a good sign that you aren’t getting the levels of nutrients needed for healthy hair. Even if it doesn’t look like a problem right now, consider how your diet may be affecting your hair loss over time. There is a well-known correlation between low protein intake and hair loss. More specifically, low iron status can cause hair loss.

Damaged skin and nails

Your nails and cracked skin are two tell-tell signs that you may lack the right ingredients for a strong and healthy body. Protein is important for building and maintaining strong bones, hair, and tissue.

Mary J. Payne
Mary has over 10 years of experience as a journalist. She loves to travel and write about her experiences, but she also covers topics such as education, career advice and finances.