Which of the following can lead to a deficiency in protein?

Deficiencies in protein can arise from a variety of factors, but eating disorders, specifically anorexia nervosa, are particularly significant in this context. Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, which can lead to severely restricted food intake. Individuals with this condition may avoid consuming adequate amounts of protein, which is essential for numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair, enzyme production, immune function, and muscle maintenance.

When the body does not receive enough protein, it can lead to various health issues, including muscle wasting, weakened immune response, and overall compromised bodily functions. This is in stark contrast to conditions such as anxiety disorders, hypertension, and diabetes, which may not directly influence dietary choices related to protein intake to the same extent as an eating disorder like anorexia nervosa. While they may affect appetite or nutrition in indirect ways, they do not inherently lead to a qualitative or quantitative deficiency in protein consumption as specifically as an eating disorder can.