الفهرس 
IntroductionOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
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Abstract
Protein is a complex organic compound composed of many amino acids. Amino acids that cannot be synthesized naturally in the body are called essential amino acids and must be supplied by the food. While the nonessential amino acids are synthesized from products or intermediates of crucial metabolic pathways. Amino acids are produced through the processes of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) transcription and translation. Protein is an essential nutrient for the growth and maintenance human body and is one of the building blocks of body tissue. It is the major structural component of all cells in the body, especially muscle, body organs, hair, and skin. It is also utilized in glycoproteins which are used as precursors to nucleic acid, co-enzymes, hormones, immune response, and cellular repair. Accordingly, protein deficiency causes several health complications. Insufficient protein causes wasting and shrinkage of muscle tissues, swelling, skin degeneration, kwashiorkor, marasmus, fatty liver, impaired mental health, edema, organ failure, and weakness of the immune system. Moreover, considerable reduction of protein in the diet results in depressed activities of important enzymatic systems. Besides, protein deficiency is accompanied by a decrease in antibody production which leads to a longer persistence of viral and bacterial infection. Consequently, unbalanced nutrition and protein deficiency increases the risk of complications and reduces the functional reserves.