'low-protein' originates from the combination of 'low,' meaning 'not high or tall,' and 'protein,' which comes from the Greek word 'proteios,' meaning 'primary' or 'of first importance.'

'Protein' was first coined in the 19th century from the Greek word 'proteios,' and 'low-protein' became a common term in dietary contexts in the 20th century.

Initially, 'protein' referred to a class of nitrogenous organic compounds, and 'low-protein' specifically referred to diets or foods with reduced protein content.