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Symptoms of Protein Malnutrition

Protein malnutrition is most common in underdeveloped nations where people have limited access to food. It's especially prevalent among children in these countries, because their rapid growth and development means they need more protein relative to their body weight than adults do, according to World's Healthiest Foods. The risk of protein malnutrition is decreased if a diet includes enough calories and amino acids, but even in developed countries, eating habits, medical conditions and psychological problems can put people at risk for protein malnutrition.

  1. Marasmus

    • Marasmus, one of two types of protein malnutrition, refers to a state of semi-starvation. It can occur in people of any age who have limited food access, but it is most common in children who are not breast-fed and who are given diluted baby formula. Marasmus symptoms include weight loss, loss of muscle and visible fat, weakness and fatigue, according to World's Healthiest Foods. Marasmus can also affect the immune system, making infections more frequent.

    Kwashiorkor

    • Kwashiorkor is the second type of protein malnutrition. Its name is derived from a Ghanian word that means "the evil spirit that infects the child," and it usually occurs in children younger than 4 who eat high-carbohydrate diets with limited or no protein, according to World's Healthiest Foods. Symptoms of kwashiorkor include muscles wasting away, fluid retention (edema) and an enlarged, fatty liver.

    Vegans and Vegetarians

    • Meat and dairy are the main sources of protein in the typical American diet, so vegetarians and vegans may be at increased risk of protein malnutrition. However, maintaining a diet that includes a variety of vegetables, grains and legumes usually allows vegans and vegetarians to avoid protein deficiency, according to World's Healthiest Foods.

    Others at Risk

    • In developed countries, the people at highest risk for protein malnutrition are those who have had extreme physical trauma, such as extensive burns, that raises their protein needs, according to World's Healthiest Foods. People with a medical or psychological condition that affects their ability or desire to eat are at increased risk of protein malnutrition as well.

    Protein Sources

    • Tuna, shrimp and cod are the best sources of protein, according to World's Healthiest Foods. Very good protein sources include venison, salmon, turkey, chicken, lamb, beef, spinach, tofu and soybeans. Among other good sources are eggs, milk, collard greens, cauliflower and many legumes.

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