Explain why a person who does not eat enough protein in their diet may develop health problems over time.

WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales) — 1.3.1 Diet and nutrition · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Protein is required for growth, the formation of new cells and repair of tissues. It is also a key component of enzymes, hormones and antibodies. If a person does not consume enough protein, the body cannot replace damaged or worn‑out cells and tissues. This results in health problems such as poor growth in children, a weakened immune system, slow wound healing or muscle wasting.

Examiner tips

Use the exact terms – growth, new cells, repair, enzymes, hormones, antibodies
Explain the chain: lack of protein → impaired repair → specific health problem
Show the cause–effect relationship clearly

Common mistakes

Using vague words like ‘nutrients’ instead of ‘protein’
Failing to mention a specific health problem or symptom
Omitting the role of protein in enzymes, hormones or antibodies

Mark scheme (4 marks)

Protein is needed for growth / making new cells / repair of tissues
Protein is needed to make enzymes / hormones / antibodies
Without enough protein, the body cannot repair / replace damaged or worn-out cells / tissues
This leads to a named health problem / symptom, e.g. poor growth (in children) / weakened immune system / slow healing of wounds / muscle wasting

Key terms in this question

protein