Proteins are constantly being turned over in body tissues as old cells die and are replaced by new ones. Approximately 300 g of new protein is made each day in the human body.
The disease syndrome of kwashiorkor first described in 1933 is believed to be due to protein deficiency, but it occurs to varying degrees in conjunction with calorie deficiency. The dramatic clinical picture of kwashiorkor (edema, hypoalbuminemia, and a fatty lover with or without skin and hair changes) represents acute decompensation of a relatively long-standing deficiency state, usually precipitated by infection.
The disease syndrome is variable source the degree in both calorie and protein malnutrition, as well as the nutrients, will influence the biochemical and clinical changes.
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The term protein deficiency can be defined as state of relative or absolute deficiency of body proteins or one or more of the essential amino acids. The deficiency can result from a protein-deficient due to other disease and in general can also result from a global deficit of food.
In uncomplicated protein deficiency, for example, protein catabolism should be minimal when total energy is the limiting factor, however, protein catabolism must increase to cover energy needs.
Severe marasmus or choric starvation , is characterized by growth retardation , loss of body fat, and muscle wasting. Studies of mass starvation during World War II and in chronically deprived populations suggest that severe deficits of calories and protein result in decreased fertility, in a deceased in the length and weight of the newborn, and in increased rates of neonatal mortality.
When total caloric intake has been adequate or nearly adequate, as is possible when starchy low protein foods are dietary staples, the symptoms are more toward changes associated with protein deficiency pellagra-type dermatitis, fatty liver, changes in texture and pigmentation of hair, gastro intestinal disturbances and diarrhea with resulting loss of electrolytes.
Protein deficiency in human body
