The human body consists of many different cells, the most important building material for which is considered protein. Its lack interferes with the normal functioning of the muscles, slows down the renewal of cells, the formation of hormones and enzymes.
The role of protein in the body
Before determining the cause of low protein in the blood, you need to understand exactly what its role in the human body is. Protein is an organic compound consisting of amino acids in various combinations. In the human body, it belongs to one of the most important components, and existence without it is simply impossible.
Among the main functions of the protein, it is necessary to distinguish the following:
- construction;
- transport;
- protective;
- energy;
- regulatory.
The construction function is characterized by the fact that proteins form the basis of all cells of the human body and help to renew epithelial cells. In addition, it performs a protective function, is required for the normal functioning of the immune system, is involved in the process of blood coagulation.
In addition to the main functions, the protein in the body performs many others, as it provides various intracellular processes, regulates the acid-base balance, and ensures the normal functioning of the nervous system.
Protein norm
When conducting a blood test, the amount of protein and its individual components can be determined. According to available indicators, you can determine its deficiency in the body, based on existing standards. It is worth noting that the norm of protein content in the blood is approximately the same for women and men, there are only differences depending on age. That is why the following indicators (gram / liter) are considered the norm:
- newborns - 43-76;
- children 1-5 years old - 60-74;
- children 5-15 years old - 51-77;
- adults - 64-83.
After the study, the norm of the amount of protein in the blood is determined depending on the age of the person. As a result of this, conclusions can be drawn regarding the occurrence of pathological processes in the body.
Lack of body
Regardless of the cause of low protein in the blood, various pathological processes occur. To date, protein deficiency is quite common. It affects people trying to lose weight, suffering from diseases of the digestive system, endocrine system or vegetarians.
It is worth remembering that the
indicators of total protein are largely dependent on proper nutrition, since a lack of vitamins can lead to poor health.
Often, a decrease in protein in the body is observed in childhood, during pregnancy, lactation, significant physical exertion, as well as prolonged stay of patients in bed.
Main reasons
There are various reasons for the low level of protein in the blood, among which are the following:
- primary or nutritional failure;
- secondary deficiency;
- increased catabolism.
Primary insufficiency develops as a result of insufficient intake of protein with food. Often people who have completely refused dairy and meat food, as well as those who restrict themselves in food for any reason, often suffer from this.
The cause of low blood protein can be the presence of diseases of the internal organs, as well as metabolic disorders. Protein deficiency can occur with severe burns, severe injuries, malignant neoplasms, as well as many other serious conditions. Among the main causes of low protein in the blood are the following diseases:
- liver disease
- digestive dysfunction;
- malignant neoplasms;
- chronic kidney disease;
- injuries
- ascites;
- poisoning.
Deviation from the norm of the protein content in the blood serum indicates the presence of disorders in the body, and a problem can only be identified by conducting a comprehensive examination. In this case, self-medication is not recommended, since only a qualified doctor will be able to determine the cause of the low protein in the blood and prescribe competent adequate treatment.
Signs of Protein Deficiency
It is important not only to know what are the causes of low total protein in the blood, but also to take into account the symptoms of the disease. A deficiency of this substance to a mild degree may not manifest itself at all, so few associate a deterioration in performance and fatigue with a protein deficiency. If it becomes even smaller, then the first signs appear, which are expressed in:
- severe weakness;
- headache and sleep problems;
- puffiness;
- nervousness
- pallor and rashes on the skin.
A lack of protein provokes the occurrence of weakness, so it becomes difficult for a person to carry out the usual daily activities, lethargy, apathy, trembling in the muscles appears. In addition, there is a depletion of the nervous system, various kinds of disturbances appear.
Among the characteristic signs, slow healing of wounds can be distinguished, since protein is required for the processes of cell and tissue repair. Depending on the cause of low protein in the blood, the consequences can be quite serious, as children slow down their development and growth, and adults suffer from hormonal disorders, liver failure, anemia and vitamin deficiency.
When is analysis needed?
The causes of low total protein in the blood are associated with a variety of factors, but the consequences can be quite serious, so it is important to conduct a timely examination. A biochemical study is prescribed for:
- liver problems
- severe burns;
- infectious diseases;
- eating disorders.
A properly conducted timely examination will help determine the presence of a problem, which makes it possible to get rid of it much faster and easier. The analysis is given in the morning strictly on an empty stomach. You can take blood at other times, but at least 8 hours should pass from the time of the last food intake.
How to raise protein
In order for the body to function normally, the lack of protein must be constantly replenished. With a significant decrease in protein concentration, you need to enrich your diet with animal products. Be sure to consume meat, vegetable proteins, fish, dairy products, eggs. If, when adjusting the diet, it is impossible to get rid of a lack of protein, then it is necessary to carry out diagnostics and treatment in a hospital.
You can increase the protein content in the body by using medications. For a quick and sustainable result, multivitamin complexes and a special diet are prescribed. It is worth remembering that not all proteins are split equally in the digestive system, since some of them are only partially absorbed, so the diet should be developed specifically by a nutritionist.
You need to remember that you can not consume the same dishes, since the diet should be quite diverse. Many protein-containing foods are high in fat, so you need to consume them in moderation. It is necessary to increase the amount of protein food gradually, since the intake of a large amount of protein can become stressful for the body.
Diet features
The proteins required by the body for normal functioning are found in plant and animal foods. It is known that, due to its composition, animal protein is absorbed much easier. Some people need to consume a lot more protein, in particular during pregnancy, lactation, those who play sports or hard physical work.
Pregnancy treatment
The causes and treatment of low blood protein during pregnancy can be very different. During the bearing of a child, any indicators can deviate to a smaller or greater side without the presence of dangerous pathologies. This is due to hormonal changes.
However, sometimes a decrease in protein can indicate the presence of dangerous pathologies of the kidneys, excessive bleeding and anemia. That is why it is important to conduct timely diagnosis and, if necessary, treatment.
Before starting therapy during pregnancy, you must initially determine the main cause of the pathological process. If the problem is related to the heart, sparing medications are prescribed. Renal disorders are treated mainly in a hospital setting. Anemia requires the use of iron-containing drugs, as well as a special diet.