Too Much Protein in Diet

To understand how too much of protein in a diet is harmful, we have to first understand how
protein plays a key role in helping our systems maintain themselves. Protein is what helps in building muscle, aiding the immune system while regulating blood circulation. If the body doesn't get its sufficient dose of fats and carbohydrates, it leans on protein to fulfill the role
instead of supplying fuel.

There are three kinds of this problem that occur; transient (temporary case), persistent (a recurring ailment), and orthostatic (happens when one sits/stands/lies down). The first kind, transient and the last, orthostatic - do not require treatment in most cases, or have any long-term effects on health. Those who have persistent proteinuria on the other hand, may eventually suffer from kidney ailments that will need immediate
treatment.

Even hair and nails are made up of protein, where it sustains the bones, skin and cartilage as well. There's only a limited amount of protein that the body requires. True that it needs a lot for the above functions, but overeating protein can have a negative effect on the body. That is why it is important to eat it in moderation. Here we discuss the effects of excess protein in a diet, and how to balance portion intake.

Effects of Excess Protein in One's Diet

When there is too much protein in a person's diet, side effects subsequently take place, altering your overall bodily system. Find out what these effects are, and cut down on protein intake accordingly. When there is a presence of protein the body that is way too much for the
body handle, it shows up on tests, after one has a checkup done, or if experiencing the effects of this problem.

• It causes a lot of stress on the kidneys, and must be countered by exercising if protein intake is high. Consulting a doctor first would be advisable, before going on a high protein diet.
• Increases the risk of cancer.
• Increases one's chances of having cardiovascular diseases.
• Too much protein in the system eats away at calcium from the bones, since it needs this element for digestion. So if you haven't had enough calcium intake, the body takes it from the bones as a substitute. This in turn makes bones brittle.
• Acts as an irritant towards allergies, making them worse.
• Formation of kidney stones
• Increases the risk of getting diabetes.
• Can lead to gout.
• Weight gain is evident.

Symptoms of Excess Protein Intake

Once the damage starts on the body due to excess protein, symptoms arise that one will notice over a period of time. Don't let this lead up to something more severe, and make sure you do something about it when you notice these changes in your body. Medical experts say that symptoms do not occur when a person suffers from proteinuria, where if left unattended and overlooked, it can lead to the signs eventually.

• Excessive perspiration takes place. This is because the more protein one eats, the more likely it is for he/she is to lose a lot of water from the body. Due to this, it is advisable to drink a lot of water, to make up for what the body has lost through urine and sweat.
• Cataracts
• Arteriosclerosis
• Excessive urea in the kidneys, will tend to cause a lot of lower back pain. This is because protein has amino acids in them, and when the body breaks it down, it converts it from ammonia to urea, causing one's lower back to hurt..
• Osteoporosis takes place, since bones are brittle from lack of calcium in them.
• Constipation
• Headaches
• Feelings of malaise.
• Hypertension
• Nausea, due to the body using the excess proteins for energy, due to lack of carbohydrates/fats.
• Pain and tenderness in the joints due to arthritis (gout).
• Acid amounts in blood increase.
• Extreme discomfort
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

Protein Rich Foods to Eat in Moderation

The following list encompasses vital, yet harmful proteins if not eaten in the right amounts. Balancing portions is something one should always keep in mind about, like a constant mantra, while eating protein rich meals.

• Ham
• Fish
• Low-fat yogurt
• Milk
• Sausages
• Legumes
• Soya milk
• Corned beef
• Fruits and vegetables
• Chicken
• Bacon
• Nuts
• Tofu
• Lamb
• Beans
• Eggs
• Cheese
• Beef
• Luncheon meat

How Much Protein to Take

You'll come across ways on how to manage just how much protein you need to eat in a day. Follow these helpful portion guidelines to help you on your way to staying healthy and risk free from the side effects.

• A portion of 0.8-1gm of protein per kg of weight a day is sufficient (a person who weights roughly 70 kg, should eat about 52gms of protein a day).
• Men and teenage boys, should get three daily portions of a totaled amount of seven ounces of protein in their diet.
• Adults and children should have two daily portions, of a totaled amount of six ounces of protein a day.
• A total of two portions of five ounces for toddlers, women and older people.

Accordingly spread out your protein intake over the course of a number of days, as opposed to eating it all at once, in a single day. Too much of protein can prove to be quite harmful as you now know. The only way to help your body cope up with more protein, is if you exercise on a regular basis. Balance your meals, and balance portions. Have a healthy tomorrow.