Why Are High-protein, Low-carbohydrate Diets So Harmful?

Protein-rich foods like cheese, yogurt, red meat and fish are main components of a low-carb diet, but consuming too much of these foods can have adverse effects on your health. High-protein, low-carbohydrate diets should only be followed if you are generally healthy. Inform your physician before beginning this or any diet.

Carbs are Important

Your body utilizes carbohydrates, more than fat and protein, for energy. About 45 to 65 percent of your total calories should come from carbs; however, following this diet may allow you to consume 10 percent or less. Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, or blood sugar, which is absorbed by tissue and organ cells for energy. Extra glucose is stored and used when blood sugar levels drop. Eliminating carbs completely or consuming minimal amounts causes your body to work extra hard to break down protein and fat for energy. This puts an excessive strain on your digestive organs and can cause damage down the line.

Too Much Fat

Fat is a concentrated energy source, meaning it contains a high amount of calories. One gram of fat provides nine calories, while carbohydrates and protein each only have four calories per gram. Consumption of fatty foods like red meat, cheese and dairy foods increases when you follow a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet. These foods are naturally high in fat -- some of which is "bad" fat. Saturated and trans fats are bad fats that are found naturally in animal meat and dairy foods. Consuming too much of these fats can increase your cholesterol, elevate your blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease.

Excessive Protein

Consuming high amounts of protein can damage your kidneys and liver, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Your body breaks down protein as a last resort for energy. Harmful by-products produced during the breaking down of proteins can damage these digestive organs and can eventually lead to heart disease.

Ketosis

Ketosis is the breakdown of fat in your body, which occurs when glucose runs out. When your body metabolizes, or breaks down, fat for energy, ketones are formed. Ketones are acid-based chemicals that travel through the blood and can spill into your urine to be excreted. A buildup of ketones can lead to kidney stones and possible damage to your kidneys and liver.

Lack of Fiber

Fiber occurs naturally in fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods. Decreasing your consumption of these foods in your diet limits your fiber intake. Your body needs fiber to help pass food through your gut. Having minimal amounts of fiber in your diet leads to constipation, diarrhea or diverticulitis, and it may increase your risk of certain colorectal cancers, reports MayoClinic.com.