fULL ARMOR FITNESS
Protein is in Most Foods, But Are You Getting Enough?
- You Always Get Hangnails “Our skin is a huge immune organ because it protects us from the environment,” says Blatner. Due to a shortage of protein, you may notice cracks or tears, potentially exposing you to pathogens and leading to infections.
- Your Brain Feels Foggy Your protein at meals can help time-release the carbs for steady energy. This will reduce blood sugar spikes. If you’re relying only on crackers, pretzels or bread, you’ll get energy, but it just won’t be for the long haul, followed by the fog.
- Your Hair is Falling Out You may find hair in your brush, but it shouldn’t be clumps or large amounts. Protein is the building block of all of your cells—your hair follicles included. But if you typically don’t get enough protein, you may notice that your strands start thinning (although keep in mind, this can also be a sign of other conditions, like thyroid trouble).
- You Feel Weak We all know that protein is essential for building muscle. If you don’t get enough of it, your muscles may start to shrink over time. As a result, you may feel weak and unable to do the exercises you once excelled at.
- You Get Sick Constantly “Protein is needed to build all the compounds in our immune systems,” says Blatner. If you seem to be infection prone or catch a cold more than your friendse—and you’re in good health— your deficient food friend, protein, may be to blame.
- You Crave Sweets Blanter says, “If all you ate in the morning was a handful of cereal, you’re going to get energy right away, then your energy is going to wane.” One of the first signs you’re low on protein: You start craving sweets and feel like you’re never quite full. One of the protein’s biggest chores is to keep your blood sugar regulated —which means if you’re lacking, your glucose levels will be all over the place, encouraging you to reach for a quick fix like candy.