Effects of too little protein in diet

About to embark on first proper lifting plan on Monday aiming to build muscle with minimum fat gain. Reading around the subject, seems I'm short on my daily protein intake so will try protein shakes to begin with and see how it goes. In for the long haul. All fine and dandy.

However, looking at my typical eating patterns, until now it appears I've normally only been eating about 50% of my recommended protein amount despite coming from a meat and 2 veg home.

1) Are there any side effects of eating too little protein in your diet? I know that too much can be harmful on your kidneys.

2) If I continued with this deficit when I start my new plan 4 weight sessions a week, 3 cardio (for fun/enjoyment/health), 1 yoga class, 1 pilates class (since I've just started yoga a month ago and love them both) what would be the effect (or lack thereof) if my calorie intake was otherwise bang on?

Ta!

[QUOTE=liebkuchen;1122632453]
1) Are there any side effects of eating too little protein in your diet?[/QUOTE]

Yes. Generally poor overall health for one thing.



[QUOTE] I know that too much can be harmful on your kidneys. [/QUOTE]

Not true for anyone with normally healthy kidney function.



[QUOTE]
2) If I continued with this deficit when I start my new plan 4 weight sessions a week, 3 cardio (for fun/enjoyment/health), 1 yoga class, 1 pilates class (since I've just started yoga a month ago and love them both) what would be the effect (or lack thereof) if my calorie intake was otherwise bang on?
[/QUOTE]

As above, general poor health, frequent illness, and certainly no muscle/strength gain.

You really have to feed your body for it to function at its best. You may get by for a while but it wont be optimal and you'll get partial results.