Why do I need protein powder if I am not wanting to grow massive muscles? Well, the word protein comes from the Greek term proteios (“of the first rank”). Protein is made up of amino acids which play an essential role in practically every process in your body. It makes up about 50% of the organic material in the body and accounts for 17% of your body weight (in most people- excluding bodybuilders and athletes where this percentage increases). Therefore, any deficiency in protein will impact the way the body can function. The body can only make some protein itself and the rest must be obtained from a variety of food sources or protein supplements (these are classified as ‘essential’ amino acids). There are many symptoms which may be a sign of not getting sufficient protein. Below are 10 uses of protein and the associated symptoms that can arise from protein deficiency.