What happens when you don't eat enough protein?

Please correct me if I'm wrong but protein is needed for the body to repair the muscles. If I'm not eating enough protein is it possible that my muscle mass is wasting away since it's not being fully repaired? I break the muscles down and then they're only able to be repaired 90-95% of the way (or less even) since I'm not eating enough protein? If I'm not eating enough protein, is it possible for my body to use something else (like my muscle) to repair my muscle? Thanks for any help and clarification!

I did a couple of searches to see if this has been covered (it probably has) but I didn't find anything initially. If something is out there already, just let me know and I'll do some more searches. I'm not trying to waste anyone's time discussing things that have been covered before. :) Thanks again for the help!

Never mind. I found a post. A mod can delete this if they want.

Bodybuilding.com has an interesting new post on this up: http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/protein_requirements_reevaluated.htm

This guy claims people need far less protein than they think.

Of course opinion, and even the scientific basis for those opinions, seems to be all over the map on this front.

You definitely need SOME protein.

Your needs depend on your size,height,weight,LBM and your activity level/type.

Just off the cuff I would say LOW (red flag) would be anything under 40 grams a day.

Well, I don't eat anywhere near 1gram/lb body weight....and I gain just like everyone else.

:confused:

Well, I don't eat anywhere near 1gram/lb body weight....and I gain just like everyone else.

:confused:

I honestly don't think that much protein is necessary. I've gone as low as half of that and still gained.