Protein Deficiency Symptoms Common in Indian Children

According to the recent data by Poshan Tracker, an estimated 6% of children under 5 years in India suffer from "wasting," or a condition known as being severely underweight for their height. This is one of the key indicators of protein insufficiency in India, and its impact is depicted in a significant number of children in the country. Deficiency of protein in India causes severe health problems, like stunted growth, weakened immunity, and cognitive delay. Knowing the symptoms of protein insufficiency helps parents and caretakers take preventative measures to provide a healthier future for their children.

In this article, we will cover symptoms, prevention, and causes of protein deficiency in Indian children.

Common Protein Deficiency Symptoms (Protein Ki Kami Ke Lakshan In Hindi)

Listed below are some of the common protein deficiency symptoms that your parents and caretakers should be aware of: 

1. Swelling (Oedema)

Fluid retention, or oedema, that causes swelling in the abdomen, feet, and hands often manifests in victims of protein deficiency disease. Edema occurs because protein maintains fluid balance in the body. Fluid will start to collect in tissues since there is not enough protein, and swelling will become noticeable.

2. Fatigue and Weakness

Children suffering from protein insufficiency often have low energy or complain of feeling tired all the time. Since muscles are involved and energy is necessary for muscle movements, deficiency means constant fatigue, wherein even the slightest activity is tedious.

3. Growth Delay

Growth delay is one of the major protein deficiency symptoms in children. Proteins are critical for the growth of tissue and muscles. If proteins fall below the body's threshold needs, there will be poor height and weight gain, causing children to lag far behind their contemporaries in physical development.

4. Muscle Loss

Protein is the building block of muscles. Without enough protein, children may experience muscle wasting, reduced strength, and overall weakness. This can be particularly concerning as it affects mobility and physical activities essential for healthy development.

5. Frequent Infections

Protein deficiency in India causes a weakened immune system. It is essential to produce antibodies and immune cells, which will not be present in the children's bodies if they are deprived of adequate amounts of protein. Therefore, the child is prone to infections such as colds, flu, and many others.

6. Slow Wound Healing

Protein plays a significant role in the repairing and rebuilding of cells. Children suffering from symptoms of protein insufficiency have slow wound healing sites. Small cuts and nicks take a long time to heal because the body lacks a portion of the proteins it needs for tissue repair.

7. Brittle Nails

One of the most prominent signs of protein deficiency disease is weak, brittle nails. Protein provides building blocks for the production of keratin, the substance required to make nails robust and healthy. When it lacks, nails start breaking easily and have a rough surface.

8. Thinning and Falling Hair

Protein deficiency disease causes hair disorders through the weakening of hair follicles. This causes thinning, breakage, and even hair loss. Since keratin is a product of proteins, a lack of proteins can influence growth and strength negatively.

9. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain

Protein regulates the metabolism. The lower amount of protein leads to unintended changes in body weight. Some children may even lose weight rapidly because they will have lost muscles. Others gain weight because of the fluid retained due to oedema.

10. Anemia

Anaemia is a condition where, due to low levels of protein, there may not be sufficient red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. Symptoms include pale skin, dizziness, and constant fatigue, and thus, it ranks among the most serious symptoms of protein insufficiency in children.

11. Poor Appetite

Surprisingly, protein insufficiency might also tend to reduce an appetite. The metabolism of the body slows down, and there is a reduction in hunger among children, which can impact their overall health.

Deficiency of Protein Causes: Kwashiorkor and Marasmus

The severe form of malnutrition associated with protein insufficiency is categorised by two diseases - Kwashiorkor and Marasmus, commonly known as PEM.

Kwashiorkor

This is when an individual has carbohydrates but lacks protein. The insufficient supply of protein results in oedema, or swelling, that usually occurs on the face and abdomen. Children are mostly affected due to being weaned off from breast milk and put on a diet with much carbohydrates and minimal protein.

Marasmus

Marasmus is a more severe form of malnutrition that results from a deficiency in all macronutrients—protein, carbohydrates, and fats. In this condition, muscle and body fat tissue break down, giving the body a wasted, shrivelled appearance. Children with marasmus look very thin, weak, and frail.

Both conditions are serious and require immediate medical attention, underlining the importance of a well-balanced diet with adequate protein intake for growth and development.

How to Prevent Protein Insufficiency In Children?

Children must get enough protein in their daily meals to avoid protein insufficiency. Here are some strategies, with a focus on options suitable for Indian children:

Incorporate Protein-Rich Foods in Every Meal

Include protein-rich foods in breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For Indian children, foods like dal (lentils), paneer (cottage cheese), chicken, eggs, and curd (yoghurt) are great sources of protein.

Incorporate Plant-Based Protein

If your child is vegetarian, incorporate tofu, tempeh, chickpeas, and rajma (kidney beans) that contain plant-based sources of protein. You may serve these in combination with whole grains, including rice, roti, or quinoa to complete the protein.

Protein-rich Snack

Provide snacks high in protein like boiled eggs, peanut butter sandwiched in whole wheat bread, nuts including almonds and cashews, or moong dal chilla.

Dairy and Legumes 

Incorporate dairy into your diet: milk, cheese, and yoghurt are high in protein and calcium. Add peas and soy as legumes. You can use them in curries, soups, or snacks.

Protein Supplements (If Necessary)

For children on a very restrictive diet, using protein powder or protein-enriched drinks can be helpful. You can blend a small amount of plant-based protein powder with smoothies or milk.

Variety of Proteins 

Indian food is rich in a variety of protein. Introduce the child to a variety of sprouts, sattu, and poha with peanuts for a tasty, balanced diet.

Monitor and Track 

Always track the intake of protein for your child. He or she will require increased protein if engaged in sports and other extracurricular activities.

Making protein a regular part of every meal and snack can prevent protein insufficiency and support the growth and development of your child.

Final Thoughts

Proper well-being comes with a safety net to healthcare that would ensure the overall health of the child. Lack of proteins causes severe health complications in a child, including conditions like Kwashiorkor and Marasmus. These have devastating effects on the growth, immunity, and other aspects of their development. Niva Bupa Health Insurance offers pan-India coverage, helping you manage your child’s healthcare expenses while ensuring timely medical intervention. Our coverage supports your child’s overall health, protecting them from diseases, including those caused by nutritional deficiencies.

FAQs

What are the signs of protein insufficiency?

Children suffering from signs of protein insufficiency include slow growth, muscle weakness, swelling or oedema, and irritability.

How can I prevent my child from protein insufficiency? 

You can add eggs, dairy, lentils, and legumes to your child's daily meals.

Does the deficiency cause long-term health issues? 

Yes, severe deficiency can lead to stunted growth, weak immunity, and delayed development.