6 Signs You’re Not Getting Enough Protein
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Are you the kind who’s actively conscious about your health, hunting for all and any advice you can gather for a healthy lifestyle? Then you must have heard it all, haven’t you? Fats are a total no-no, and so is sugar, right? Oh, and protein is the new ‘in thing’ in the diet charts these days, isn’t it? It is the main man now, with previously popular low-carb diets hitting the low notes these days. But are you still running low on your protein requirement? It’s confusing, isn’t it? If you want to cross-check, here are a few common symptoms, just in case!
1. Unsatisfactory Meals
Chef and author Terry Hope Romero mentions that she figured that her diet is lacking in protein content when her meals stopped offering her the satisfaction she kept looking for. Romero says that if individuals lead a life consisting of work pressure, daily chores, and necessary workouts, they will be finding themselves feeding on diets containing processed carbohydrates, which might not be the best health choice to make.
Our bodies know what they want, they are intuitively smart like that. They have their own way to demand what’s lacking. So, if your mornings ask for sunny side ups or your afternoon cravings sing meatloaf melodies, you should probably go for it. Oh wait, you’re a vegan? What’s tastier than oatmeal with nut butter and seeds then, eh?
2. Falling Sick Too Often
Proteins are the architect of our immune system, they ensure that our immunity is up and working. If your cells need to grow, multiply, and be strong, they need to feed on proteins (1). In layman words, you have more chances of being attacked by disease-causing organisms if you are low on protein levels. So, if you have been feeling feverish and your nose won’t stop flowing, maybe your protein bar is still in its wrapper!
3. Wounds Are Forever
Ever wondered why the athletes carry their protein shakes wherever they go? Why your gym trainer is always asking for protein supplements? It’s simple. Protein helps in the repairing of tissues; hence, it is your body’s home doctor for cuts, bruises, and sprains (2). So, if your last week’s scrapes haven’t left your hand yet, maybe it’s time to call Dr. Protein!
4. You Want A Cottage Of Sweets
Protein deficiency gives your body sugar mood swings, which rise rapidly and hit an alarming spike before their exponential fall. That’s when your body craves for compensation, and that means white flour and anything sweet (3). If you had your breakfast moment with waffles and caramel syrup, you have already had the experience. Dawn Jackson Blatner, R.D. talks about how cravings are basic repercussions of insufficient food consumption during a day’s schedule.
Basically, proteins (along with fats) dissolve slower compared to carbohydrates. So, if your general platter is all carbs, it will lead to a rise in blood pressure levels because the body will be quick to absorb the nutrients, hence, creating need for more.
Additionally, if even healthy carbs are not paired along with proteins, then they will make your body’s sugar high hit a ‘wuthering heights.’ So, here’s a useful tip: An apple a day keeps doctor away – but only if it’s coupled with protein-rich cheese dips!
5. Unmindful Mind
Isn’t everyone annoying on days when you just can’t get yourself any breakfast or lunch? Well, it’s not the people (at least not in most cases). Like we learnt before, protein controls our sugar levels, and sugar regulates our mood. So, if you’re cranky, agitated or just can’t think straight today, here’s the solution- EAT!
Additional advice: These are the elements of your ‘food first aid kit’ – nuts, pretzels, and humus. Snack on them when peaceful dinners are Herculean tasks. Otherwise, good luck taming the protein-famished demon!
6. Hair Fall
Ever wondered how Rapunzel had such gorgeous, long, and strong hair? Witch’s protein potion, I tell you! Hair is 91% protein. So, if you don’t let your body have its quota of protein, it will seize it from its comparatively inconsequential elements – like hair (4), (5). Are you scared that your hair comb is mauling your scalp? Well, shampoo and conditioner on the middle rack, proteins on top- that’s the solution!
Remember, as long as one is having enough food intake to meet the caloric demands of the lifestyle they lead, then there is no reason to worry. There’s also no need to go for additional measures. So, if you are not sure what contains protein, just bring in variety on the table. Don’t stick to one flavor, taste or color. Moral of the story – “A dining table with diverse dishes is eternal Christmas.”
