Signs You're Not Getting Enough Protein
By Sara Butler
Your body uses protein for just about everything. It’s the building block of the cells that make up your skin, your hair, your bones, your muscles, your cartilage – everything! That’s why it’s really important to eat enough of it each day. When you don’t get enough, then it can really begin to impact your health. A protein deficiency is uncommon in the United States, but if you’re on a very strict or special diet, then you need to be on the lookout for it. Here are a few signs that may indicate you’re not getting enough.
How Much Protein Do You Need?
The amount of protein you need differs from person to person, based on different factors such as sex, weight, height, and activity level. In general, the guidelines put forth by the USDA suggest 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of weight. So, take your weight in pounds, divide it by 2.2, then multiply it by 0.8 and voila! That’s how much protein you need per day.
Do You Crave It?
One of the most obvious signals you’re not getting enough protein is that you crave it. That’s your body’s way of telling you that it needs more, so give in to the craving. Listen to your body and what it’s trying to tell you it needs, it will rarely lead you astray.
You Want Sugar
Protein is digested slower than carbohydrates, so if you eat a meal full of carbs without enough protein, it will cause your blood sugar to rise quickly. This then results in a drop in blood sugar, which then makes you crave more sugar. The key is to eat carbohydrates along with an adequate amount of protein so that everything you eat digests slower and helps to keep your blood sugar stable.
You Have Thinning Hair
Hair is mostly made of protein, so if you consistently don’t get enough, then your hair can thin or even fall out completely. The reason? Your body is using the protein is it getting for more important body functions. Hair is very far down the priority list.
If your nails are weak and split easily, then it’s the same deal – it could mean you’re not getting enough protein to support healthy nail growth.
You need to make sure you get enough protein in your day. Take these signs seriously if you have them and look for ways to make sure your diet is giving your body what it needs to be healthy.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Sandy Springs, Ga.