It has long been theorized that consuming an increased amount of protein negatively influences renal, or kidney, function. This isn't entirely accurate based upon current research, as of 2011. Whey protein is a high-quality protein supplement that offers the highest biological value, or BV, compared to any other protein, according to the McKinley Health Center. The high BV of whey makes it superior to other proteins in terms of digestibility and absorption. Consult your doctor before trying whey supplements.
How it Works
Once you ingest whey protein, it navigates your digestive tract within an hour or two. During this time most of the protein is broken down into amino acids and absorbed within your stomach and small intestine. The kidneys are also involved in the protein synthesis process. Specifically, the kidneys help to rid the body of waste, called urea, created during the protein synthesis process. Consuming an increased amount of protein creates an increased amount of urea, which causes the kidneys to work harder.
Renal Function
Even though you may be consuming more protein by adding whey protein to your current daily intake of the nutrient, it doesn't necessarily mean you're causing damage to your kidneys. A 2005 review published in "Nutrition and Metabolism" examined the effects of increased protein intake on the kidneys. Researchers found that while it may cause the kidneys to work harder to excrete urea from the body, there's no evidence that protein causes renal failure or kidney stones.
Whey Protein
Whey is derived from milk and offers many potential health benefits. When consumed in moderation, it may be able to help you preserve lean muscle tissue, boost immune system function, promote fat loss and build new muscle tissue. It's also rich in vitamins and branch-chain amino acids necessary for building muscle. McKinley Health Center suggests consuming 20 to 25 g of whey protein per day to maximize its benefits while minimizing strain on your kidneys and reducing the risk of unwanted weight gain.
Exception
There is one instance where whey protein may affect renal function in a negative fashion. If you already suffer from any type of kidney disease, a low-protein diet may be recommended by your doctor. In this case, consuming whey protein in addition to whole-food sources of protein may cause an unhealthy strain on your kidneys. For this reason, you should consult your doctor to determine if whey protein supplementation is right for you.
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