If you’re thinking of adding protein powder to your diet, you’re probably wondering if it’s bad for your kidneys. While it’s true that plant proteins are more toxic to your kidneys than animal protein, it’s not clear whether a high-protein diet is the culprit. What is known is that too much protein can damage the kidneys, especially in people who are already healthy.
Plant protein is more toxic to kidneys than animal protein
While animal protein is a rich source of complete proteins, it can also wreak havoc on the kidneys, reducing your odds of a long and healthy life. Plant-based proteins on the other hand, offer far more protection to the kidneys. They contain vitamin C, magnesium, and calcium, plus the benefits of a plant-based diet such as less uric acid in your system.
The best part is that plant-based proteins can be found in many foods we already eat. Besides the delicious red meat, you can find it in nuts, beans, seeds, and lentils.
A study in the 2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that increasing the quantity of plant-based proteins in your diet can lead to reduced risks of chronic kidney disease. In fact, the number of participants who experienced a decrease in their CKD risk after replacing total red meat with plant-based proteins was about one-fifth.
As for the best possible plant-based protein sources, the list includes legumes, nuts, and grains. Soy, meanwhile, has been processed into such common food items as tofu and soymilk.
The benefits of plant-based proteins include the reduction of serum triacylglycerol and oxidized low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. In addition, they contain more antioxidants and are lower in saturated fat than animal-based protein. However, they may not be the best choice for all patients.
While there is no hard and fast rule, there is a lot of controversy about the best way to consume protein for a healthy kidney. If you’re concerned about your health, talk to a dietitian and they can help you figure out a plan to meet your needs while avoiding dietary triggers.
Consuming too much protein can lead to liver damage
Consuming too much protein powder can actually damage your liver. In fact, it is one of the reasons that many athletes choose to avoid protein-based supplements.
The human body does not manufacture nine amino acids needed to form complete protein. Instead, the liver breaks down dietary proteins to produce ammonia, a substance that the liver uses for cleaning up the bloodstream.
When the liver is stressed, it can’t properly filter out unwanted substances. This leads to a buildup of toxic waste products that can eventually lead to serious medical conditions.
Luckily, there are ways to limit the toxic waste products that you release. One way to do this is to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. Another is to eat lean proteins.
If you’re worried about your liver, it’s best to talk to your health care provider before you start taking any supplements. Some supplements can increase the level of bad bacteria in your gut, which may lead to constipation and gas.
In addition, consuming too much animal protein may be a risk factor for fatty liver disease. According to research, this condition is linked with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and liver cancer.
As a rule of thumb, the body can only handle about 2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. But athletes and other active people need higher amounts. They should aim for 0.8-1.3 grams of protein per kilogram.
Although this is a fairly large number, there is no need to overdo it. It is possible to consume the optimal amount of protein without compromising your health. You can do this by avoiding processed supplements and sticking to nutritious sources.
High protein diets cause changes in renal function
There are a lot of studies that suggest that high protein diets can affect kidney function. This is a problem for patients who are currently in the middle of chronic kidney disease (CKD) or are at risk of developing CKD.
High-protein diets have been associated with various metabolic alterations, including glomerular hyperfiltration. They have also been linked to nephrolithiasis, a condition in which stones form in the kidney. Nevertheless, in most cases, the adverse effects of a high protein intake on renal health are not permanent.
One study suggests that a high protein intake may contribute to an age-related decline in kidney function. Another suggests that a high protein intake accelerates the rate at which a person loses renal function.
It is unclear whether a high DPI is detrimental to kidney health. However, it is possible that it contributes to a faster rate of decline in the eGFR and other markers of kidney function in individuals at risk of cardiovascular diseases.
A high protein intake can also induce excess protein waste in the blood. This can lead to vomiting, fatigue, and weakness. Excess protein waste can be eliminated from the body by urination.
The kidneys filter protein waste through urea and creatinine. A high protein diet may increase urea, which is a nitrogenous byproduct of protein metabolism.
High protein diets can also induce glomerular hyperfiltration, a condition that is associated with de novo CKD. In addition, a high protein intake is associated with accelerated progression of preexisting CKD.
Several animal models have shown that a high protein diet can negatively impact kidney function. These include a pig model, a rodent model, and a rat model.
Eating too much protein can end up in the emergency department
Eating too much protein may not be a good thing. In fact, a high-protein diet has been linked to a nastier-than-average arterial plaque. Not surprisingly, it’s not just your heart that suffers.
Protein shakes aren’t the only way to get your fill of the good stuff. It’s also a good idea to incorporate protein into your daily diet. Aim for at least a serving a day, preferably two or three. The recommended amount is 60 grams for a 75 kilogram (165 pound) person. For optimal health, consume two or three meals per day with a light dinner in the early evening and a moderately-sized breakfast in the morning.
The old school approach of dividing your daily protein needs by the number of hours you spend awake may be the most effective way to do it. This is especially true for people with low metabolisms, a condition known as type II diabetes. Of course, your mileage may vary. Luckily, the aforementioned rules of thumb have you covered.
Aside from the obvious protein sources, it’s also important to include other macronutrients like fiber and a modest amount of fat in your diet. A hefty dose of omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to lower bad cholesterol levels, a major factor in cardiovascular disease. You can find them in fish, eggs and dairy. Similarly, saturated fats increase triglyceride levels, a potent cause of atherosclerosis. Keeping these toxins in check can make a big difference.
There are many reasons to indulge in the finer things in life, so do it smartly and remember to take the time to eat a healthy dinner with your kids. Getting the most out of the smallest amount of food is just as important as having a few too many to fit in your mouth.
Whey protein is ideal for consumption right after working out
Whey protein is a protein supplement that provides the body with the necessary amino acids. This helps the body replenish muscle tissues. It also helps increase metabolism and prevents hunger.
Increasing the amount of protein in your diet may help you lose weight. Protein helps the body use energy sources, such as glycogen, during exercise. In addition, it can be beneficial for the skin, joints, and muscles. However, it is important to consult with your physician before taking too much protein.
When consuming protein, it is best to choose a high-quality product that does not contain added sweeteners, dyes, hydrogenated oils, or fillers. These ingredients can slow down the effects of protein and may lead to uncomfortable symptoms.
Using whey protein after exercise can improve the body’s ability to repair damaged muscle fibers. The branched-chain amino acids in whey protein can inhibit muscle breakdown, which promotes muscle growth.
Some research shows that consuming a protein supplement in the morning can reduce appetite and increase weight loss. However, it is not clear whether these results are related to the protein itself or to the time of day that the supplement was consumed.
Another study found that adding protein to the diet led to a decrease in blood pressure. However, this effect was most notable in overweight people.
The randomized controlled double-blind trial included 151 men and women aged 18 to 60. They were matched to their baseline strength. They took two scoops of a whey protein supplement after exercising.
Protein supplements are convenient and easy to take. However, they should not be the only way you reach your protein goals. You should also get your protein from whole food sources.
