What happens to your body when it doesn’t get enough protein?

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Vegetarians can get enough protein in their diets but do need to monitor the types of protein they take in to make sure they cover these vital amino acids. One of the smartest sources of vegetarian protein is the grain quinoa, which contains all nine of the essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. Symptoms indicating low protein can vary significantly due to the vital role it plays in so many aspects of a healthy body. People who experience low protein due to liver problems may also experience fluid collecting in the abdomen.