If you’re feeling a little out of sorts and you’re unsure why, Dr Michael Mosley has warned that your body may be giving you ‘warning’ signs to let you know you’re lacking a key nutrient.

TV’s doctorMichael Mosley, who popularised the Fast 800 diet, has shared that if people are not getting enough protein, then they may be leaving themselves susceptible to a whole host of health issues, including chronic health conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease. Dr Mosley also said that protein is vital for maintaining bone health and revving up metabolism. As reported by Bristol Live, you should aim to consume 60g of protein daily, even if you’re limiting your calorie intake to eat within a deficit.

Warning signs you’re protein deficient:

Below are five warning signs that you may not be consuming enough protein, according to Dr Mosley.

• Regular feelings of hunger
• Tiredness and mood swings
• Weak hair, skin and nails
• Loss of muscle mass
• Increased sugar cravings

Protein helps to curb your hunger pangs, leaving you fuller for longer between each meal. Studies have shown that it reduces levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin and a lack of dietary protein can increase hunger and the urge to eat in an effort to restore protein levels, which could lead to overeating and weight gain in the long run.

A lack of protein can reduce energy intake but increase energy expenditure. Also, amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein, help to regulate the production of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, which in turn help to regulate and improve mood.

Hair, skin and nails are made up of the proteins collagen, keratin and elastin. Therefore, if you’re not getting enough protein in your diet, these three things could suffer.

A study also found that it takes just one week of inadequate protein to negatively impact skeletal muscles, so it’s important you get enough protein to stop muscle wastage.

Protein also works to slow the release of sugar into the bloodstream, so when we don’t eat enough our blood sugar will begin rising and falling at abnormal rates, which is why it’s so important. But where can we get protein from?

To boost your protein intake you can eat more of the following foods:

• Poultry
• Fish
• Dairy
• Eggs
• Soya
• Nuts and seeds

According to the British Heart Foundation, most adults need around 0.75g of protein per kilo of body weight per day. That’s about two portions of meat, fish, nuts or tofu per day.

Do you have a story to share? Email: [email protected]