Why Not Getting Enough Protein is Ruining Your Health

Over the past few years, there’s been a growing trend to reduce protein intake…

With many claiming it’s “unhealthy” or “unnecessary”. 

We've seen articles and social media posts promoting lower-carb, higher-fat diets, while questioning the importance of protein. 

For example, a 2023 New York Times article titled "Why You Should Rethink Protein" argues that we’ve been overestimating the need for protein, and suggests that most people get more than enough in their daily diets. 

Another article from the University of Missouri titled "Too Much of a Good Thing: Overconsuming Protein Can Be Bad for Your Health" warns that excessive protein can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

We’ve been led to believe that protein isn’t as important as we once thought.

But the truth is, higher-protein diets have consistently shown to improve every aspect of mental and physical health. 

This is especially true for those with COMT variants or MTHFR mutations, where protein becomes crucial for proper gene function.

How Protein Affects Your Genes

If you have a COMT mutation, your body has a harder time processing dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine.

These are the neurotransmitters responsible for focus, motivation, and mood. 

When your COMT gene isn’t functioning properly, your brain doesn’t receive the correct signals to properly regulate mood and focus.

Protein is what helps your COMT gene work, but without it, you’re left with mental fog, low motivation, and increased stress.

The same goes for the MTHFR mutation.

This gene is responsible for processing folate and converting it into a usable form. 

It also helps regulate homocysteine, an amino acid.

When homocysteine levels are too high, it also causes brain fog, low energy, and even an increased risk of heart disease.

So, if you're not getting enough protein, your body can’t use folate effectively, and your mental clarity and mood take a hit.

Why Methylation Needs Protein

Methylation is a process that controls how your genes are expressed. 

It’s essential for regulating brain function. 

Protein provides the methyl donors necessary for methylation to happen. 

Without enough protein, your COMT and MTHFR genes aren’t properly methylated, which means they can’t do their job as efficiently. 

I recommend aiming for 1 gram of protein per pound of your goal body weight, especially for those with COMT or MTHFR mutations. 

Protein is the cornerstone your body needs to function at its best.

The Bottom Line

The recent push to lower protein intake is misguided and counterproductive…

Especially for those with COMT or MTHFR mutations.

For these individuals, protein is not just important—it’s essential.

It directly impacts mental clarity, stress response, and overall gene function.

Without enough protein, your body struggles to optimize these key processes, leaving you more vulnerable to brain fog, low energy, and mood imbalances.

Prioritizing protein will give your body the fuel it needs to balance your hormones, sharpen your focus, and support your mental health.

Give your genes what they need, and you’ll notice the difference in how you feel and function every day.

Until next time,

Kashif Khan

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice from your physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your regular healthcare provider.