Low blood protein levels can be caused by liver, kidney, and intestinal disease, nephrotic syndrome, malnutrition, and certain disorders such as immunodeficiency. Liver disease impairs protein synthesis, while kidney disease causes excess protein loss in urine. Intestinal disorders prevent protein absorption, and poor hygiene habits can lead to short-term reduction in protein levels.
Low blood protein levels can be caused by liver, kidney, and intestinal disease. A condition known as nephrotic syndrome, characterized by high cholesterol and excess protein in the urine, could also lead to low protein levels. Malnutrition is an additional cause of low blood protein levels.
In patients with liver disease the ability to break down and synthesize proteins is impaired. Excessive alcohol consumption and scarring of liver tissue can contribute to the development of liver disease. One of the main functions of the liver is to make enough protein to support the immune system. If you are unable to produce enough, low blood protein levels may be a result.
Malfunctions in the kidneys can also lead to low protein levels. Under normal conditions, the kidneys help keep the blood clear of unnecessary acids and minerals and will cause the body to secrete these wastes. When the kidneys become infected, they can lose excess protein in the urine instead of keeping it in the body’s bloodstream. Some kidney disease is the result of other conditions such as diabetes.
Low protein levels could also be caused by intestinal tract disorders. There are some allergic conditions and reactions that can prevent proteins from being absorbed by the intestines. If proteins are not properly absorbed and synthesized, they are released from the body as waste. This prevents blood flow from building up and maintaining the correct levels.
Malnutrition is another major cause of low protein levels. Individuals who aren’t consuming enough through their diet are at risk. Pregnancy is another risk factor for developing low protein levels as the added stress of fetal development requires higher protein intake.
Those with certain disorders, such as immunodeficiency, can experience low protein levels. Some of these immune disorders are genetic and some are acquired. Immune disorders can cause the body to attack cells and beneficial nutrients, including proteins.
Nephrotic syndrome usually results in a combination of generalized swelling and inflammation, high cholesterol, excess protein in the urine, and low protein levels. Poor hygiene habits could lead to low blood protein as harmful organisms can invade a person’s system through vulnerable openings such as the eyes and nose. The body needs additional protein broken down to fight off infections and invading organisms. This would most likely result in a short-term reduction in overall body protein levels.
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