Consider the key functions of proteins in the body and explain how the symptoms of severe protein deficiency relate to these functions


Children with severe malnutrition develop swelling of the belly and ankles. Their diet does not allow them to make albumin, a protein that helps keep fluid within the blood. When albumin is lacking in the blood plasma, fluid can leak out of the blood vessels and into the tissues.
The swollen belly may also be due to fatty liver. The liver needs protein to produce lipoproteins, which transport triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood. Without sufficient transport proteins, the fats in the blood get stored in the liver as fatty deposits. Over time, this can lead to damage to the liver tissue.
These children may be more susceptible to infection due to lack of protein to maintain the cells of their immune systems. The antibody proteins, produced by B lymphocytes, also protect the body against infection.

Nutritional Science

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