The color of the hair may also change as melanocyte pigment producing cells are also affected by a lack of essential fatty acids. The skin also looks unhealthy and dry. Kwashiorkor Kwashiorkor is the disease that results from a deficiency of protein in the diet. It can be seen in people who have an otherwise normal diet with a good intake of calories. Most frequently though it is observed in populations affected by famine.
Protein deficiency has severe consequences for the body.
Most noticeable is the muscle wasting, poor skin health, and general lethargy of the individual. In kwashiorkor hair is inevitably affected. Diffuse alopecia of the head and body develops. Any remaining hair is fine and dry. Hair also often turns a rusty red-brown color as melanin pigment activity becomes abnormal with protein deficiency.