Kwashiorkor is caused by a lack of protein in the diet.
Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition resulting primarily from inadequate protein intake. As stated in the reference:
- Kwashiorkor is caused by a lack of protein in the diet.
Protein is a vital nutrient essential for numerous bodily functions. The reference highlights its fundamental role:
- Every cell in your body contains protein.
- You need protein in your diet for your body to repair cells and make new cells.
When the diet lacks sufficient protein, the body cannot perform these critical functions effectively, leading to the characteristic symptoms of kwashiorkor, such as swelling (edema), stunted growth, and muscle wasting.
