Did you know that most US adults are not getting enough protein? Studies have found that on average, one out of three adults is not getting the required protein intake. But how can you know for sure? Thankfully, there are signs you need more protein that you can pay attention to. Usually, your body will let you know when something isn’t right, so be sure to look for these signs.
6. You’re Always Sick
One of the crucial signs you need more protein is that you realize you’re getting sick more often. Poor protein can negatively affect your immune system, according to studies, since it’s the key component of antibodies. Because of this, if you’re lacking in protein, you’re more likely to catch colds, flus, viruses, and more. Upping your protein intake essentially powers antibodies and immune cells.
5. You’re Tired
If you feel as though you can’t get enough sleep, regardless of how many hours you get or how well your sleep routine is, then you might need to boost your protein intake. This is one of the crucial signs you need more protein. Protein provides the necessary nutrients and amino acids to help your body repair cells and regulate energy metabolism. Without enough protein, your system will struggle to generate the necessary energy to get through the day.
4. You Can’t Concentrate
Brain fog and poor focus stem from a lack of protein. If your protein intake is too low, your body starts reallocating resources, essentially prioritizing survival over vitality. You’ll start to realize that your thoughts are slower and your patience is thinner, because you don’t have leftover energy or protein to spare.
3. You’re Losing Muscle
Similar to protein powering antibodies and fueling your immune system, protein also fuels and feeds your muscles. If you start skimping on protein, over time, you’ll notice that your muscles will break down and focus on more necessary parts. This is also linked to how tired you feel, as your metabolism will shrink along with your muscles.
2. You Look Dull
While this might sound harsh, it’s one of the many signs you need more protein. If you don’t look or even feel like yourself, and if your hair, nails, or skin looks dull or weak, then you might not be getting enough protein. This is the same as if you’re looking puffy or bloated. Your skin, hair, and nails are made of proteins like collagen, and if you’re not eating enough protein to fuel these parts of your body, you’re not going to look like yourself.
1. You’re Constantly Hungry
One of the biggest signs you need more protein is if you’re constantly hungry. When you look to see how you can stay full and satisfied for longer, usually fiber and protein are the key factors. If you eat dinner but get hungry a short while after, you probably don’t have enough protein. Protein is amazing at helping you stay full because it triggers hormones that tell your brain that you’re full.