Protein isn’t just for gym-goers it’s a vital nutrient your body needs daily to function well. From repairing tissues to making hormones, enzymes, skin, and muscles  protein plays a role in everything.

But what happens when you’re not getting enough?

Here are some subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs of protein deficiency, especially relevant if you’re vegetarian, lactose-intolerant, or skipping balanced meals.

1. Constant Fatigue or Low Energy

If you’re tired all the time, even after sleeping well, a lack of protein could be a reason. Protein helps maintain stable blood sugar and supports your body’s repair mechanisms when it’s missing, energy crashes are common.

2. Hair Fall or Thinning

Hair is made of keratin a protein. Without enough daily protein, your body prioritizes vital functions and slows down hair growth. This can lead to:

• Increased hair shedding

• Weakened strands

• Thinner volume over time

Many women notice stronger hair after increasing clean protein intake.

3. Frequent Hunger or Cravings

Ever eaten breakfast and still felt hungry an hour later? It could be a protein issue. Protein helps you feel full, and without it, your body starts craving carbs or sugar to fill the gap.

High-protein breakfasts = better satiety = fewer cravings.

4. Slow Healing Wounds or Soreness

Protein helps repair tissue. If you’re bruising easily, healing slowly, or constantly sore after workouts or even daily movement your body may be running low on the repair tools it needs.

5. Weakened Immunity

Frequent colds? Getting sick more than usual?

Your immune cells are built using protein. A deficiency can weaken your immune system, making you more prone to infections or taking longer to recover.

6. Skin Issues or Dullness

Collagen, elastin, and keratin are all protein-based  and without them, your skin can look:

• Dry or flaky

• Dull and uneven

• Slower to heal or break out more easily

Protein also helps maintain hydration at a cellular level.

7. Mood Swings or Brain Fog

Protein helps with the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. A dip in protein can lead to:

• Brain fog

• Difficulty focusing

• Mood instability

Especially during PMS or periods of stress, your body needs more  not less  support.

So, How Much Protein Do You Really Need?

While it varies, a general rule is:

• 0.8 to 1.2g per kg of body weight for most people

• 1.5g or more for active individuals, athletes, or people with recovery needs

That’s 50-80g per day for most women and it’s surprisingly easy to fall short without tracking.

SUPR’s Role: Making Protein Easy

If your diet’s lacking in dairy, meat, or consistent meals, a clean plant-based protein can bridge the gap minus the bloat, lactose, or chalky taste.

SUPR delivers 23g protein per serving, along with biotin, inositol, and superfoods that support the areas deficiency hits hardest: skin, hair, gut, and hormones.

Final Scoop ✨

Protein deficiency doesn’t always show up dramatically. Sometimes it’s just feeling off tired, hungry, low mood, dull skin, or extra hair on the floor.

If you’re noticing the signs, it might be your body asking for more nourishment not more caffeine or calories.

Listen to the signals, add the right fuel, and watch your body respond. SUPR or not getting enough protein is non-negotiable.