Hypoproteinaemia: Symptoms, Causes and How to Fix It

You may have seen bodybuilders and physical trainers drinking whey protein along with milk to build up metabolism and strength. The hair and nails are mostly made of proteins. So, what are proteins? Proteins are large and complex macromolecules that play a crucial role in regulating body cells, tissues and organ functions in your body. They provide strength in producing hormones, enzymes and other metabolic chemicals.  

Proteins are composed of amino acids arranged in different ways, and their arrangements are controlled by DNA. As your body does not synthesise enough proteins on its own, they have to be consumed through your diet. When protein levels are low in your body, a condition known as hypoproteinaemia arises.  

Hypoproteinaemia

Hypoproteinaemia is characterised by abnormally low protein levels in your blood. Protein builds and maintains the immune system, muscles and organs. There are mainly two types of proteins found in the blood, which are:

• Albumin: It prevents body fluids from leaking out from the bloodstream.
• Globulin: It is a protein that forms blood clots and regulates the liver and kidneys.  

Blood tests detect the lower level of either or both types of proteins. Many factors affect the protein levels in the blood, and not all of them are serious medical issues. It can be prevented and managed by many remedies.  

The quantity of albumin proteins in blood relative to globulins is indicated by the A/G ratio. The blood in your body normally has a little more albumin than globulins. A/G ratios are often higher than 1. The normal range of proteins in your body is measured by grams per decilitre (g/dL). The normal range involves,

• Total proteins: 6.3 to 8.0 g/dL
• Albumin: 3.9 to 4.9 g/dL
• Globulin: 2.0 to 3.5 g/dL  

Symptoms of hypoproteinaemia

The symptoms of low protein levels involve:

• Dry skin, skin rashes and skin sores
• Fatigue
• Frequent infections
• Itchy skin
• Oedema in the stomach or lower limbs
• Brittle hain
• Hair loss and loss of hair pigment
• Jaundice  

Causes of hypoproteinaemia

Hypoproteinaemia is caused by:

• Autoimmune conditions, like Crohn’s disease and celiac disease
• Frequent Infections and inflammations in the body
• Increased metabolism
• Kidney conditions like nephrotic syndrome
• Liver conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatitis  
• Malnutrition
• Pregnancy  

Diagnosis of hypoproteinaemia

The diagnostic tests involve,

• Blood tests: The samples of blood are collected and tested in the laboratory for albumin and globulin levels. When their levels are less than the normal count, it is a sign of hypoproteinaemia.
• Comprehensive metabolic panel: It is a test used to examine the albumin levels in the blood.  

Treatment of hypoproteinaemia

The treatments are given based on the cause of the condition. If the protein levels are low during pregnancy or are malnourished, physicians recommend increasing the protein intake through diet, and no medications are required. When this condition is a symptom of other conditions like kidney and liver conditions, the required medications are given along with the protein booster. But, most of the time, it is through food and a healthy diet that hypoproteinaemia is cured.  

• Preventive methods for hypoproteinaemia  
• Preventive methods include consuming a healthy diet, which involves protein-rich food, like lean meats, beef, lamb, pork, chicken, fish, crab, oysters, milk, cheese, yoghurt, lentils and spinach, which help increase protein levels in the body.  

Conclusion

To conclude, a condition known as hypoproteinaemia occurs when a person’s blood has insufficient amounts of protein. Depending on the cause, medical attention is necessary. The underlying cause of protein deficiency helps determine the patient prognosis. There are numerous plant- and animal-based sources of proteins that can help cure the condition.