My Teenage Son Is Eating Too Much Protein

Your teen son is wise for choosing protein foods to include in his diet, but a limit is important to prevent negative consequences of consuming too much of this nutrient. Protein is an essential part of your teen son's daily diet, but if he is eating large amounts of protein in an effort to lose weight, you should step in and help him learn healthier ways to accomplish this goal.

Importance of Protein

According to Jennifer K. Nelson and the Mayo Clinic, authors of "Mayo Clinic Diet Manual: A Handbook of Nutrition Practices," your teen son needs to consume between 45 g and 59 g of protein per day, depending on his age, weight and activity level. Protein is an essential nutrient for your teen son's growth and development. He needs to eat enough protein to sustain his health and to encourage the chemical reactions that makes his body function the way it is supposed to.

Dangers of Too Much Protein

More protein than necessary can lead to health problems. The Harvard School of Public Health reports that it takes more calcium to digest large amounts of protein, which may leave your teen son's bones and teeth without the calcium they need for strength and health. MayoClinic.com adds that high-protein diets can also cause nutritional deficiencies and low intake of fiber. This occurs because your son is filling up on protein foods, which leaves little room for other types of food. Eating too much protein from red meat and other high saturated fat sources can increase your son's risk of heart disease, as well. Too much protein can also lead to kidney problems.

High-Protein Diets For Weight Loss

If your teen son is eating too much protein in an effort to lose weight, he may be successful. High-protein diets like the Atkins plan restrict the intake of carbohydrates, which are considered a dieting enemy by many people. MayoClinic.com notes that if your son needs to lose some weight, following a high-protein diet for three or four months likely will not lead to damage. Monitor your son's weight loss progress and encourage him to end the diet after three or four months to avoid negative health problems.

Suggested Protein Foods

If your teen son still desires to eat a lot of protein, teach him about making healthy choices. If your son is planning to use a high-protein diet for weight loss, steer him away from red meats and other proteins high in saturated fat. Encourage him to choose lean chicken, turkey and fish to get his protein. Beans, tofu, nuts and low-fat dairy products are additional protein foods that are nutritious for your teen son, and will also supply some of the nutrients that may be lacking in a high-protein diet.