5 Reasons That High Protein Diet Might Not Be So Good For You After All

In this era of multiple fad diets, people are constantly looking for that miracle diet that will remove excess weight with minimum effort. The problem with a lot of these diets is that they only work temporarily, or for a short period of time, and then as soon as you start to eat a normal diet again, the weight returns. The same can be said for the high protein low carbohydrate diet.

As well as the possibility of regaining the weight, another downside to this type of diet is the potential effects it can have long-term on your health. Studies are still being done to ascertain what these health effects are, but in the meantime, some potentially dangerous side effects have already been shown. 

The high protein diet is said to help with weight loss by making you feel full much faster than other diets or eating plans. It is also beneficial to include a low carbohydrate component to the diet as well, as carbohydrates definitely increase weight, and those with medical disorders such as diabetes are often directed to follow a lower carbohydrate diet to manage their blood sugars. However, a high protein diet with low carbohydrate intake can actually cause deficiencies in nutrition as well as severely reducing the amount of fiber that is consumed.

If you choose to follow a high protein diet, it is important to eat the right kind of protein in your diet. First of all, you should avoid any processed meats, such as those you get at the deli section of your supermarket or store. It is better to choose meats like skinless chicken, pork and lean beef. Fish, soy protein, nuts, beans and low-fat dairy options are more efficient and healthy. The same goes with the carbohydrates – avoid the processed options and stick with vegetables, fruit and whole grains that are naturally high in nutrients and fiber.

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As with any other type of diet for weight loss, it is just as important to follow an exercise routine to ensure you are healthy and fit. This doesn’t mean you have to train for marathons; just simple exercise every day for about 30 minutes is sufficient. Healthy weight loss cannot be gained simply by diet alone, you do need the exercise component as well. Otherwise and weight loss you may achieve is likely to be due to deficiencies and will only be temporary. 

High Protein Diets: Known Health Risks

One of the more serious health risks associated with a high protein diet is cardiovascular disease. This is due to the increase in cholesterol associated with proteins, particularly dairy and other high-fat foods. This is why it is so important to choose leaner meats to counter-balance the fat and cholesterol impact of a high protein diet, although these too can have a high level of saturated fat content.

Heart Disease

Cardiovascular disease is one of the biggest killers found all over the world. The rates of cardiovascular disease have increased tremendously over the last few decades, and this is largely due to the increased intake of processed foods, and the higher rate of inactivity. The invent of technology has led to less exercise, as many occupations and hobbies now involved sitting for long periods of time in front of a computer screen. Exercise and diet are hugely important for reducing the risk of developing heart disease.

Potential Kidney Damage

One of the most important organs in the human body is the kidney. Studies have indicated there is a strong risk of potential damage to the kidney through a high protein diet. This is because this type of diet places a lot of extra stress on the kidney, which greatly effects the ability of the kidney to do its job correctly. The lack of carbohydrates means the body has to then use glycogen for energy, and for each gram of glycogen used, there is a resultant loss of two grams of water. This results in a diuretic effect, and stresses the kidneys as they remove a by-product of protein synthesis from the body, which is called urea.

Also, when the kidneys are in this state, it can result in an increased excretion of calcium in the urine, which causes kidney stones. This is a seriously painful problem and makes you very sick, sometimes resulting in surgical procedures being necessary to remove the stones.

Osteoporosis And Muscle Effects

When excess calcium is lost in the urine, there is an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, a painful and debilitating disorder of the bones. The bones literally start to breakdown, increasing the chances of traumatic fractures and stress fractures. The high acidity levels in the body from kidney disorders leads to the calcium being rerouted from bones and teeth to counteract the acidity.

Low levels of calcium in the body also effect nerves and muscles and how they work. Lack of calcium can greatly effect how the muscles contract, which can effect movement and any exercise activity. It also affects the impulses sent to and from the brain from the nerves.

Constipation

This may not seem a serious problem to many people, but unless you have suffered from it you can’t really imagine what it is like to have it as a chronic problem. Not only is it painful not being able to go to the toilet, but when you haven’t been for a while, it can also be painful when you finally manage to. Also, constipation can become serious and some people may need hospital treatment. 

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In conclusion, studies so far have indicated that a high protein diet may be suitable as a short-term solution, but the risks associated with long-term intake are potentially dangerous. Like any other diet or exercise you wish to undertake, you should always talk with your doctor about your intentions before you start, so that you can receive the best possible advice and guidance for you individually.