Protein: Benefits and Risks – Experts Warn Against Excessive Intake
Dubai, UAE – While frequently enough touted for muscle building and overall health, excessive protein consumption can have detrimental effects, ranging from weight gain to serious health complications, according to nutrition experts. A recent lecture highlighted the importance of protein source and balance, cautioning against simply increasing intake without considering potential risks.
Margaret Murray, a nutrition lecturer, explained that surplus protein isn’t efficiently eliminated by the body. Instead, it’s converted into fatty tissue for storage, contributing to weight gain. she specifically warned individuals with chronic kidney disease to closely monitor their protein intake under the guidance of a dietitian to prevent kidney damage.
A condition known as “protein poisoning” can also occur when high protein intake isn’t balanced with sufficient fats, carbohydrates, and other nutrients. Historically, this was observed in populations relying heavily on rabbit meat – a protein source low in fat – leading to severe illness, a phenomenon dubbed “rabbit starvation.”
The lecture emphasized that protein can be sourced from both plant-based options like beans, lentils, and whole grains, and animal sources such as eggs, dairy, meat, and fish. However, research suggests a link between high consumption of animal protein and an increased risk of early death, especially from cancer, among the Australian elderly, as well as a heightened risk of type 2 diabetes.Conversely, increased protein intake from vegetarian sources was associated with a lower risk of cancer-related death, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, and improved cholesterol levels. Murray also pointed out that many animal protein sources are high in saturated fat, which contributes to chronic diseases like heart disease. Plant-based proteins,on the other hand,frequently enough provide dietary fiber,promoting bowel health and reducing the risk of chronic illness.
“In general, the source of protein, and the balance between animal and plant sources, [is] much more important than just trying to add more protein to your diet,” Murray concluded.