You may have heard it said that “Proteins are the building blocks of life.” It’s true. They’re essential for our bodies' growth, repair, and maintenance. They play an important role in most bodily functions, from supporting muscle development to producing hormones and enzymes. But what if your body isn’t processing the proteins in your diet properly? 

In this article, we'll share a few ways to tell if your body is digesting and metabolizing proteins as it should and what steps to take if it's not.

Understanding Protein Processing

When we consume protein-rich foods like meat, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, and nuts, our digestive system breaks down the protein’s amino acids. These amino acids are absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to various cells throughout the body to fulfill their respective functions.

What To Look For

Muscle Strength and Mass: Adequate protein supports muscle development and strength. If you consistently lift weights but don’t see improvements in muscle mass or strength, it could indicate insufficient protein intake or improper processing.

Healthy Hair and Nails: Proteins are essential for healthy hair and nails. If your hair seems dull, brittle, or thin, or if your nails are weak and prone to breakage, it may signal a protein deficiency or issues with absorption and utilization.

Balanced Mood and Cognitive Function: Amino acids from protein are vital for neurotransmitter synthesis, influencing mood regulation and cognitive function. If you experience mood swings, difficulty concentrating, or memory problems, inadequate protein processing could contribute.

Stable Blood Sugar Levels: Protein helps stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates and preventing spikes in insulin. If you frequently experience fluctuations in energy levels or cravings for sugary foods, it may indicate that your protein intake or processing needs to be improved.

Healthy Skin: Proteins are crucial in maintaining skin elasticity, repair, and collagen production. It could suggest inadequate protein intake or processing if you suffer from frequent breakouts, slow wound healing, or premature aging signs like wrinkles and sagging skin.

What to Do About Inadequate Protein Processing

If you suspect that your body is not processing proteins properly, based on the signs above, here are some steps you can take to address it:

Assess Your Diet: Evaluate your dietary habits and ensure you consume adequate high-quality protein sources. Incorporate protein-rich foods into your meals, including lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts. Check credible sources to determine how much protein you need based on your age and lifestyle, then change your diet accordingly if you’re below the recommended target range. 

Consider Digestive Health: Poor digestion can hinder protein absorption. Pay attention to symptoms like bloating, gas, indigestion, or irregular bowel movements, which may indicate underlying digestive issues like lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, or gastrointestinal disorders. If digestive health symptoms last longer than a few days, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.

Optimize Nutrient Absorption: Certain nutrients, including vitamins B6, B12, folate, and minerals like iron, zinc, and magnesium, are essential for efficient protein processing. A healthcare provider (like Marek Health) can recommend blood tests to determine if these essential nutrients are present at optimal levels in your body. If not, they may recommend dietary changes or supplements. 

Seek Medical Advice: If you experience persistent symptoms suggestive of impaired protein processing despite changes to your diet, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can perform diagnostic tests, specifically blood tests and stool analysis, to identify underlying protein metabolism issues.

Proper protein digestion is vital for overall health and vitality. By recognizing the signs of inadequate protein intake or processing and taking appropriate measures to address them, you can optimize your body's ability to utilize this essential nutrient effectively. 

Consider a Marek Health Protocol

Remember to prioritize a balanced diet, digestive health, and nutrient absorption for optimal protein metabolism and overall well-being. We can help. 

Schedule a Marek Health intake if you’re interested in complete health optimization. With our extensive lab testing, health coaching, and unique-to-you recommendations, we’ll prepare a detailed plan to help you ensure you get the full benefit of a healthy lifestyle.

Schedule a free discovery call today and take the first step in optimizing your health.