Some people describe a strange, unsettling feeling: life goes on around them, yet they feel like a bystander. They speak of watching events unfold as if through glass, disconnected and emotionally dulled. This experience can have many causes, but one often overlooked contributor is a lack of adequate protein in the diet.
Protein is not just for building muscle. It plays a central role in brain function, neurotransmitter production, energy regulation, and mental clarity. When you don’t get enough of it, your brain and body begin to suffer in subtle but profound ways. The sense of disengagement many describe is not just a psychological problem, but can be a biological one too.
Neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which influence mood, focus, and emotional presence, are made from amino acids — the building blocks of protein. If your body lacks these raw materials, it cannot produce the chemicals needed to feel alert, motivated, or connected. You might still go to work, speak to people, and fulfill your obligations, but something feels off. You’re there, but not fully there.
Cognitive fog is another common result of protein deficiency. Without enough amino acids, the brain’s ability to process information and respond quickly diminishes. Tasks that once felt easy become harder to complete. Emotional flatness often follows. When your body is running on empty, it prioritizes basic survival, not vibrant experience.
Furthermore, protein supports stable blood sugar levels. If you’re low on protein, energy dips and mood swings become common. This can make someone feel even more removed from their own life, reacting slowly or not at all, like watching a play without being part of the cast.
The good news is that this sensation is reversible. Increasing quality protein intake — from sources like eggs, meat, fish, legumes, and dairy — often restores presence and clarity. People who once felt distant from their own lives report sharper thinking, improved mood, and a renewed sense of agency. It’s not just about food, but about fuel that your mind needs to stay grounded in your own experience.
If you find yourself feeling detached or adrift without a clear reason, it’s worth considering whether your diet is supporting the demands of your mind. You may not need more stimulation or motivation. You may simply need more protein.
