{
  "id": 4977648,
  "title": "Surprising signs of low protein intake: ‘Often associated with muscles…’",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/surprising-signs-of-low-protein-intake-often-associated-with-muscles-4977648",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-09-02T00:30:10.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Indian Express - Lifestyle",
    "slug": "the-indian-express-lifestyle",
    "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/3-surprising-signs-body-body-is-lacking-protein-10853536/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Celebrity nutritionist Pooja Makhija warns that low protein intake can lead to several surprising signs, including ankle swelling, sugar cravings, and constant hunger. Protein is often linked to muscles and exercise, but its benefits extend far beyond that. It aids in satiety, tissue repair, immune function, and maintaining the body's protein reserves.\n\nMakhija introduces the protein leverage hypothesis, suggesting that a low-protein diet may increase appetite, prompting people to keep eating until they meet their protein requirements. However, she emphasizes that not every craving or episode of hunger necessitates more protein. Ankle swelling, in particular, has various causes and should not be self-diagnosed as a sign of protein deficiency.\n\nMeenu Balaji, chief nutritionist at Pragmatic Nutrition, confirms that protein is essential for human survival, as the body cannot produce all essential amino acids. Proteins are vital for enzymes, hormones, and haemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout the body. A loss of muscle mass can occur within seven days of inadequate protein consumption, particularly in the elderly. Moreover, insufficient protein intake can slow metabolism, increase susceptibility to illness, and trigger cravings due to the absence of essential nutrients.\n\nSkin and hair can suffer from a lack of protein, resulting in brittle nails, dull skin, and hair loss. Balaji stresses the importance of a well-rounded protein intake by incorporating diverse protein sources. While animal products like lean meats, poultry, and fish are rich in protein, plant-based options such as beans, lentils, tofu, and quinoa can provide equally valuable protein sources. Ensuring a variety of protein-rich foods in the diet guarantees a range of essential amino acids necessary for optimal bodily functions.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The Indian Express",
        "title": "Surprising signs of low protein intake: ‘Often associated with muscles…’",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/surprising-signs-of-low-protein-intake-often-associated-with-muscles",
        "published": "2026-09-02T00:30:10.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}