Which of the following is the most likely symptom of not having enough protein in your body?

• A. You won't have any stored energy because protein is mostly used for energy storage.
• B. You will be at significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
• C. Your tissues may become swollen (edema) as there isn't enough protein in the blood to draw fluid back in.
• D. All of the above.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of protein in the body. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and maintaining fluid balance in the body. It is not primarily used for energy storage; that role is mainly fulfilled by carbohydrates and fats.
2. Step 2: Analyze the first option. Protein is not primarily used for energy storage, so this statement is incorrect. Energy storage is mainly handled by glycogen (from carbohydrates) and fat.
3. Step 3: Analyze the second option. While protein deficiency can have health consequences, it is not directly linked to a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease. This statement is misleading.
4. Step 4: Analyze the third option. Protein plays a critical role in maintaining oncotic pressure (the pressure exerted by proteins in the blood plasma). A lack of protein can lead to edema, as insufficient protein in the blood reduces the ability to draw fluid back into the bloodstream from tissues.
5. Step 5: Evaluate the 'All of the above' option. Since the first two statements are incorrect and only the third statement is accurate, 'All of the above' cannot be the correct answer. The correct answer is the third option: 'Your tissues may become swollen (edema) as there isn't enough protein in the blood to draw fluid back in.'