How Undetected Protein Deficiency In My 20s & 30s Affected My Health

Menopause. The word itself can bring a lot of unknowns for many of us women. As I ventured into my mid-40s, I knew changes were coming, but nothing prepared me for the tumultuous journey that ensued. The symptoms were alarming: sudden perspiration, sleepless nights, and an overall sense of fatigue that crept its way into my daily life. However, one of the most distressing experiences was the onset of osteoporosis accompanied by a myriad of unexplainable pains. 

Let me share my story, because you might find it eerily similar to yours or to someone you know. It began with subtle aches in my back and joints. I brushed it off initially – who doesn't have the occasional sore back or knee? But, as the ache flowed into my limbs and intensified, I realised something more insidious was at play.

"Your condition is likely a result of undetected protein deficiency over the years," my doctor explained.

It hit me like a truck. Protein deficiency? How could that be? I thought I ate perfectly well in my 20s and 30s. Yet as it turns out, the silent neglect of protein had more profound effects than I ever imagined. We often focus on macronutrients like carbs and fats, but protein can slip under the radar, especially for women juggling careers, families, and other responsibilities. 

Lack of awareness: I was acutely unaware of my daily protein needs in my younger years.

Busy lifestyle: Between work meetings and family commitments, addressing dietary requirements took a backseat.

Misleading diet trends: Various “low-protein” diet trends marketed at women may have contributed to the deficiency.

Looking back, the signs were there all along. My consistent fatigue, frequent colds, and slow wound healing were subtle hints my body was throwing at me. But the pieces only came together after the osteoporosis diagnosis. By then, the protein deficiency had done its damage, hollowing out the strength of my bones.

How can adequate protein intake in your early years help the menopause journey?

Reflecting on my journey, I can't stress enough how critical adequate protein intake is. Little did I know, the groundwork for my mid-life health woes was being laid much earlier, in my 20s and 30s. 

When we're young, it feels like you can get away with nutritional carelessness. Busy days often mean missed meals, and the dietary deficiencies accumulate unnoticed. I was no exception. I often substituted quick fixes like coffee and pastries for balanced meals, thinking, "I'll eat better tomorrow." Little did I understand the long-term impact. 

Fast forward to my 40s, I found myself confronting the cascade of menopause symptoms, and it wasn’t just the hot flashes and mood swings. I felt a pronounced ache in my bones, joints, and muscles. A visit to the doctor confirmed osteoporosis—a direct hit to my already complicated menopausal journey. My doctor explained that my protein deficiency over the years had undermined my bone density and muscle mass. 

Protein is essential, not just for muscle repair and growth but also for maintaining bone health. Imagine your body as a house; protein is akin to the bricks, mortar, and structural reinforcements. Without enough of it, the house might still stand, but it’ll be much weaker, susceptible to cracks and collapses. 

Research supports this, noting that women who increase their plant protein intake by just 3% are 38% more likely to stay healthier as they age. In my case, including a variety of plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, nuts, and whole grains could have fortified my bones and muscles, providing a resilient buffer against the impacts of menopause. 

It's never too early to pay attention to your diet. If you are in your 20s or 30s, remember that the choices you make today echo into your future. Listen to your body’s need for adequate nutrition now, so it can support you through life's inevitable transitions later on.