Neurological symptoms in children who do not consume enough protein in their diet, without presenting kidney failure, can include a variety of symptoms, some of them severe. Protein deficiency significantly affects the developing nervous system. Common symptoms include muscle weakness, reduced muscle tone, and weak reflexes, due to issues in the nerves and muscles. Additionally, studies show that these nerves exhibit various abnormalities related to the severity of protein deficiency.
In the brain, this deficiency can cause learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and reduced manual dexterity, affecting the child's mental and emotional development in the long term. Research in animals, such as rats, suggests that a lack of protein during development may increase anxiety, reduce serotonin, raise dopamine levels, and cause damage in certain brain areas related to learning and memory. Brain cell changes also indicate inflammation and lower levels of factors that support neuron growth and protection.
In summary, a low-protein diet can cause muscle weakness, learning and behavioral issues, and significant brain changes in children.
References
1. Protein Energy Malnutrition and the Nervous System. Chopra JS, Sharma A. Journal of the Neurological Sciences. 1992;110(1-2):8-20. doi:10.1016/0022-510x(92)90003-4.
2.Effect of Perinatal Dietary Protein Deficiency on Some Neurochemicals and Cytoarchitectural Balance, in F1 and F2 Generations of Rats. Abey NO, Ebuehi OAT, Imaga NA. Nutritional Neuroscience. 2024;27(9):962-977. doi:10.1080/1028415X.2023.2285085.
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