What Are The Dangers Of Increased Protein?

Protein has become a major buzzword in the diet and nutrition world, particularly among devotees of high-protein, low-carbohydrate weight-loss diets. There's no doubt that protein is an important nutrient for your body. In fact, the University of Arizona states that, next to water, protein is the most abundant component in the human body. Protein helps grow and maintain muscle and is an essential part of a balanced, healthy diet. But if consumed in excess, protein can cause health problems.

Protein Sources

Meat-eaters typically obtain plenty of protein in their regular diets. Meat, poultry and fish are the richest sources of dietary protein, with other animal products such as dairy products and eggs providing solid amounts as well. But even vegetarians and vegans have numerous food choices for adequate protein intake. Tofu and other soy products, beans, legumes, nuts and seeds are rich sources of plant-based protein. Then there are protein supplements available in nutrition and health-food stores, such as protein powder, bars and shakes, which provide concentrated amounts of supplemental protein.

How Much?

It can be confusing to determine how much protein you should eat each day. There's no one right number, because individuals vary in their protein needs; athletes, for example, require more protein than typical adults. However, Ohio State University's Office of Student Life states that the recommended daily allowance for protein is .8 g of protein for every kilogram of body weight. This computes to roughly 46 to 56 g of protein per day for the average adult, says registered dietitian Katherine Zeratsky of the Mayo Clinic.

Excessive Protein Intake

Although some people swear by increased protein intake for weight management, consuming too much protein can be dangerous if it continues for an extended period. According to Zeratsky, eating a high-protein diet for more than three or four months may cause kidney and liver problems, because your body can have difficulty eliminating the high volume of waste products that are left after protein metabolism. While they likely won't put your health in danger, you could also suffer nutritional deficiencies from neglecting the consumption of other food groups or could have difficulty maintaining your weight if you add too many extra protein calories to your usual diet.

Considerations

If you are interested in protein supplementation or a high-protein diet but are unsure if it is safe and appropriate for you, consult your physician for recommendations. Most Americans obtain sufficient protein through their usual diets, says the Harvard School of Public Health. However, if you do not eat animal products or are an athlete undergoing serious training, you may need increased protein in your diet. Your physician or a registered dietitian can help you determine how much protein to eat each day without risking health dangers from consuming too much.