Information on blood protein

causes of low blood protein
(October 12, 2010)

Proteins are essential nutrients for the body that are made up of amino acids. These nutrients are required by the body, for the proper growth, repair and maintenance of the various body cells. The main protein that is present in the blood is manufactured in the liver and is called albumin. It is a vital metabolic component & is a powerful antioxidant too, which repairs and prevents any oxidative damage to the tissues. Albumin also transports hormone, vitamins as well as minerals and distributes them, throughout the body.


Another important role that this protein plays is the regulation of water in the body tissues. It further helps eliminate the waste matter and the toxins that are present in the blood.

Therefore, it is very important to ensure that the levels of protein in the blood remain within the normal range. Drastic changes in the protein level within the body can lead to several health problems. There are several factors that can lead to low protein in blood. One of the most common causes of low protein levels in the blood is nephrotic syndrome. The symptoms that are associated with this condition are high cholesterol, swelling, low blood protein and the presence of protein in the urine. Another factor that could lead to low blood protein is when there is a high amount of protein in the urine. Kidney related problems and conditions can cause high amounts of protein to leak into the urine. Other factors that could lead to low protein in blood are malnutrition, mal-absorption, over hydration, liver diseases, the use of certain drugs and immune deficiency.

Low blood protein levels may be more common in some individuals, as compared to the others. Instances of low protein in blood are commonly observed in people who consume an excessive amount of alcohol. It is a well known fact that drinking a lot of alcohol can affect the function of the liver, which is where albumin is produced. Also, women who are pregnant are prone to a low amount of protein in their blood. Since a higher immunoglobulin level directly correlates to a low level of protein in the blood, people who suffer from autoimmune diseases are also high at risk.

Low protein levels in blood may not necessarily lead to diseases as such, but could also be an indication of an underlying medical condition. Keeping the levels of blood protein at their optimum is important since a level of low protein in blood could lead to certain diseases. There are two factors that could help maintain a healthy level of protein in the blood. The first is the practice of good hygiene, so that fewer germs enter the body, through the nose, mouth, eyes and so on. The second important factor is maintaining a healthy diet, where dietary protein is optimized. People who limit their intake of fat and cholesterol tend to cut down on protein too. However, there are several healthy sources of protein, such as nuts, pulses, whole grains, lean chicken and fish.

In case of suspected instances of low protein in blood, it is important to consult a doctor.

Low Blood Protein Causes 

A low blood protein level fails to indicate any disease, but clearly shows the presence of an underlying condition. Additional diagnostic tests are performed. Albumin is the major protein seen in the blood and is synthesised in the liver. It is an antioxidant, which saves the various tissues from oxidative damage or free radicals. It also helps as a carrier of minerals, hormones and vitamins. It aids in the regulation of water in the tissues. The level of albumin corresponds positively with the nutrient transport level.

Albumin binds with the dangerous and toxic substances and waste, thereby eliminating them from the system. Reduction in the levels of transferrin, a blood protein indicates the presence of infection. It is most commonly seen as a result of poor sanitation. The normal levels of total protein are 6.4 to 8.3 g/dL. The albumin and globulin levels are 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL and 2.3 to 3.4 g/dL respectively.

When the total protein and albumin levels are less, oedema is the result. This is generally seen in nephrotic syndrome. Decreased levels of blood protein are seen to occur in individuals with heart failure, alcoholism, immobilization, malnutrition and pregnancy. Individuals with genetic immune disorders and secondary immune deficiency are seen with low globulin levels. Decreased albumin levels are seen in individuals with dysproteinemia, liver disease, inflammatory disease and malnutrition.