A doctor has issued a warning about what could happen if you overdo protein, explaining it may increase the risk of a painful health problem.
High-protein eating plans are often marketed as a healthier choice, and protein is undeniably important. But specialists caution that taking the trend to extremes — especially while neglecting hydration and other food groups — can put added strain on the body.
Discussing how protein intake can affect kidney health, ABC News chief medical correspondent Dr. Tara Narula said: “The kidneys are sort of the main filter of our blood. They produce waste, which is our urine.
“Depending on how many chemicals or what type are in the urine and how hydrated or dehydrated you are – in addition to maybe your lifestyle, your diet, your genetics and medical conditions – you may be set up for producing kidney stones.”
Narula went on to note that uric acid kidney stones are linked to purines, compounds found in animal-based protein sources.
“So if you eat a diet that is a carnivore diet – very high in beef, chicken, poultry or seafood – you’re going to potentially break that down into uric acid, which, under the right conditions, can crystallize and form stones,” Narula added.
She also emphasized that the bigger concern tends to be extreme intake paired with poor overall balance — not just having a protein-forward meal here and there.
“We’re talking about levels that are really two to three times the recommended level of protein, where you’re not really drinking water, you’re not eating fruits or vegetables and getting other carbohydrates. About 200 grams of protein or more.
“What you can do is swap in some plant protein – legumes, beans, nuts, tofu, soy – so you’re not just fully focused on animal protein.”
Kidney stones can develop for multiple reasons, and food choices are only one of the possible contributors. Certain health conditions, as well as some medications, can also play a role.
Mayo Clinic explain: “Passing kidney stones can be quite painful. But prompt treatment usually helps prevent any lasting damage. Sometimes, the only treatment needed to pass a kidney stone is taking pain medicine and drinking lots of water. Other times, surgery or other treatments may be needed. It depends on size, location and the type of stone you have.”
According to Mayo Clinic, many Americans already consume more protein than they require, with men in particular often going beyond recommended amounts.
“The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025 indicates that men in that age range exceed their protein recommendations, especially from meat, poultry and eggs,” they explain.
“Protein should account for 10% to 35% of your calories. So, if your daily needs are 2,000 calories, that’s 200-700 calories from protein or 50-175 grams.”