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Protein is the building block of yourself. It’s the building block of your muscles and also is present in the foods that are going to boost your metabolism and fat-burning potential. Nothing is more important than protein.

It really is the fuel that motivates and really supports your body in building healthy tissues and cells. It’s not always easy to eat a well-balanced diet. Many of us live hectic lives, which can make it difficult to prepare nutritious meals every day. Luckily, there are supplements to help ensure we’re getting the proper nutrients.

However, if you don’t realize that you’re deficient in nutrients, you may not even know that your health or diet is suffering. One common deficiency is protein. It’s a common misconception that only vegetarians and vegans can be deficient in protein, when in fact, anyone can need more of it.

Here are a few symptoms that may indicate that you need more protein in your diet:

• Your hair is lackluster – It’s normal for your hair to become less shiny as you age, especially if you dye it or use hot tools regularly. It’s not normal, however, for it to become extremely brittle or fall out. This is typically one of the first signs of a protein deficiency.
• Dry skin – Your skin may also dry out easily and your nails can peel and break easily. This is because protein is needed to keep your cells strong and healthy. If you find that conditioning and moisturizing isn’t easing these ailments, you may want to begin consuming more protein.
• Sudden craving pangs – According to a study published in Diabetes Education, protein can even out your blood sugar, so when you don’t have enough of it in your system, you may find yourself craving sweet treats. Next time you feel the urge to visit the cookie jar, a handful of nuts may be all you need to feel satiated.
• Aching muscles – If you aren’t getting enough protein, there’s a good chance that your muscles will be sore and achy, even if you haven’t exercised. If you find that your muscle definition isn’t what it once was, despite keeping up with a fitness routine, this could be a sign of a protein deficiency as well. This is because a lack of protein can cause your body to break down existing muscles to get its necessary amino acids. This is why athletes resort to protein powders.
• Foggy brain – A wandering mind can be attributed to many different issues, including a protein deficiency. If you find that you have difficulty concentrating or working up motivation, your brain may be lacking in dopamine, epinephrine and serotonin. You may be wondering what that has to do with protein, though. These neurotransmitters are synthesized in the brain using amino acids that your body gets from the protein you consume. Everything in your body works together!