Hypoproteinemia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Amar goes to the gym daily, but despite his efforts, he’s not gaining the muscle mass he should. Naturally, he starts to wonder about his diet and protein intake. His gym instructor suggests he boosts his diet with healthy protein shakes, food, and fluids. Soon, Amar’s muscles begin to grow. 

While protein is very popular amongst people who wish to build a more muscular physique, is protein just for gym enthusiasts? The common misconception is that protein intake is only for those who want to gain muscles and work in the gym. 

Like any other vitamin or mineral, the human body needs protein for proper growth, strength, and energy. This article will discuss a common condition in India: hypoproteinemia, a lack of protein in the blood. 

Hypoproteinemia: Understanding the Condition

Hypoproteinemia is a common condition that speaks about a lack of protein levels in the blood stemming from a lower protein intake or underlying health conditions. 

A typical Indian diet lacks protein, often leading to the condition, especially among elderly people. Additionally, the body's capacity to absorb protein usually decreases, resulting in hypoproteinemia. 

Let’s find the answer to your inevitable questions: What are the symptoms, and how is it treated?

What Causes Hypoproteinemia?

Hypoproteinemia is a condition that is common in underdeveloped countries, primarily due to a lack of diet awareness and a focus on consuming crabs without adding fibre and protein to meals. Let’s explore the causes of hypoproteinemia beyond a lack of protein:

Liver Disorders 

You might already know that the liver is responsible for ensuring the proper processing of proteins in your body. Liver disorders like hepatitis or cirrhosis impact protein absorption in the body, resulting in a lack of protein flow in the blood to carry out the essential functions.

Celiac Disease

Celiac diseases are autoimmune diseases that impact the immune system of your body. A poor immune system is not limited to the inability to fight off diseases but can also affect the small intestine, leading to the absorption of nutrients like protein.

Inflammatory Bowel Movements

The small intestine is the place in your body where all the nutrients break down for easy absorption. Inflammatory bowel movements can damage the small intestine, leading to difficulties in protein absorption. 

Improper Diet

The importance of protein intake must be stressed more. A regular diet without protein is incomplete, which is the major reason for the condition. 

Look Out for These Symptoms of Hypoproteinemia

Just like many other conditions, symptoms of hypoproteinemia are not visible right away. But over time, they become evident and make everyday activities challenging. To help you deal with the condition better, here are some hypoproteinemia symptoms that you must look out for:

Edema

Edema is the most evident sign of a condition that can be easily observed. It is swelling in the abdomen, legs, feet, and hands. Oedema is usually caused by fluids leaking from the capillaries, which stems from a lack of protein to prevent such leaks. 

Weakened Immune System 

A lack of protein in the body means the immune system lacks the strength to fight diseases, resulting in frequent seasonal conditions. 

Sugar Cravings

Every time you crave a bite of your favourite chocolate or a spoon from the ice cream tub, it can be a symptom of a lack of protein. 

Nail, Skin, and Hair Problems

Dry and rough nails, skin, and hair have become common problems. While you might be focusing on changing your hair and skin care regime, your body needs enough protein intake. 

Slow Metabolism

Lack of protein translates into muscle loss. Interestingly, muscles are responsible for burning calories more than fat, resulting in a slow metabolism. 

If you have been observing any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should get a health check-up. Proper tests and surveys will help your doctor know how to diagnose and treat the condition. Today, when treatment costs have been skyrocketing, a comprehensive health insurance plan from Care Health Insurance, you have nothing to worry about. A reliable and comprehensive health insurance plan can offer affordable check-ups and follow-up treatments. 

How is Hypoproteinemia Treated?

Treatment for hypoproteinemia varies from person to person. Depending on factors like age, gender, diet, etc., a doctor recommends the course of treatment. Additionally, treatment also varies based on the cause of hypoproteinemia. For instance, hypoproteinemia treatment for:

1. A person with an improper diet or an eating disorder can be recommended a strict diet chart or psychotherapy to treat an eating disorder.
2. A person with celiac disease will be asked to rely on a gluten-free diet to increase the absorption of nutrients.
3. Proper diagnosis and treatment are required for liver, kidney, or small intestine disorders. 
4. Hypoproteinemia in pregnancy is a leading concern amongst medical professionals as a lactating or pregnant woman needs more protein intake. The treatment might involve a strict diet and protein supplements. 

What is the Correct Way to Consume Protein?

While protein intake will typically vary depending on a person’s gender, age, and underlying health conditions, on average, you should ensure that around 10%–35% of your calorie intake comes from protein. Another reliable method to measure protein requirements is to take 0.8 grams per kilogram of your body weight.

To aid you in preparing a protein-rich diet chart, here’s a list of protein sources that you can easily add:

1. Eggs
2. Fish and chicken meat
3. Nuts 
4. Tofu
5. Peanut butter
6. Beans and legumes 
7. Milk and yoghurt. 

The Takeaway 

Protein is an integral part of any diet, yet many overlook its importance, leading to hypoproteinemia—a common condition in India. This deficiency can have severe health impacts, resulting in various hypoproteinemia diseases. Fortunately, treating the condition is straightforward. Regardless of age, incorporating protein-rich foods into your meals is essential for maintaining a healthy body. If you continue to face challenges, there might be underlying hypoproteinemia complications, so consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and a reliable treatment plan.

>> Also Read: How does a Protein Diet help in the Weight Loss Journey?

Disclaimers: The above information is for reference purposes only. For more details about the health insurance plans and their benefits please refer to the sales prospectus, policy terms, and conditions.