Protein powder has positive and negative side effects. Whether such powders are bad for you depends on a few things namely, which protein powder you use and how much protein you consume. Ideally you should consume approximately 0.36 g of protein per pound of body weight. Consuming more than this could cause health issues. Athletes, however, may need higher quantities to rebuild muscle fiber.
Kidney Problems
Excessive protein consumption can cause kidney problems. When your protein intake is too high your body produces ketones. Ketones help burn fat, but they put a heavy strain on the kidneys as the kidneys kick into overdrive to rid the body of these toxins. This flushing of the ketones can also cause dehydration, placing yet another strain on the the kidneys.
Bone Loss
Although many protein sources -- including protein powders -- contain calcium, a diet too high in protein can cause bone loss. Excess protein can cause an increase in acidity in the body. The body works to protect itself against acidosis, an excess of acid in the blood, through the reduction of bone substance. The acidifying effects of protein thus cause urinary calcium loss, which ultimately leads to bone degradation.
Aspartame
Many protein powders contain artificial sweeteners such as aspartame. Aspartame accounts for 75 percent of all adverse food reactions reported to the Food and Drug Administration; reported reactions include dizziness, nausea, migraines and insomnia. The Mercola health newsletter cites studies linking Aspartame to severe conditions, including brain tumors, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, chronic fatigue syndrome, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, mental retardation, lymphoma, birth defects, fibromyalgia and diabetes.
Benefits
Protein powder does have benefits. Protein powders contain essential and non-essential amino acids, which are necessary for optimal health. Protein helps build muscle, repair cell membranes and form antibodies. Protein also helps burn excess fat by preserving muscle mass and stabilizing blood sugar levels.
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