Protein Lack and Abundance - Essay Example

Lack of proteins

Protein deficiency is believed to be the cause of starvation in many third-world countries and causes a lot of deaths. However, vegetarians can also suffer from protein deficiency. Once there is protein deficiency the body will turn to make proteins from muscles. Symptoms of protein deficiency include; weight loss, decreased immunity, changes in skin pigment, diarrhea, and a weakened respiratory system. These symptoms will eventually lead to death. Marasmus, kwashiorkor, and cachexia are diseases that are associated with a lack of proteins (Adams 2011).  

Abundance of proteins

The intake of too many proteins is harmful to the body. One might experience mild symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea on the onset (Adams 2011). If the intake of proteins is not controlled it might lead to other severe symptoms and problems for the body.

Weight gain

          The body can only be able to use a certain amount of proteins in a day. The rest will be stored as fats. This will cause an individual to gain weight and risk contracting heart diseases.

Liver and brain functions

          Eating a lot of proteins over a prolonged period of time causes the liver to be overworked (Adams 2011). This will allow toxic substances to accumulate in the bloodstream causing a decline in functionality of the brain and the nervous system.

Cholesterol

          Food that is rich in proteins contains a lot of cholesterol. Cholesterol hardens blood arteries and increases the chances of having a heart attack.