preview

Why Excess Protein Intake Is Hazardous

Decent Essays

Yes. There are a number of reasons why excess protein intake is hazardous. The first is fat gain. If the body receives more protein that it requires for protein synthesis and muscle repair, it will simply convert it to more useful fuel (i.e., carbohydrates), and eventually store it as fat. The increased carbohydrates caused by the excess protein will spike blood sugar, leading to increased risk of pathogenic bacteria and yeast such as candidiasis, as well as the potential to grow cancer cells. A 2012 study showed that excess protein and carbohydrate consumption were associated with an increased risk of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) (Marcello, et. al., 2012). The article concluded that not only was excessive protein and carbohydrate consumption linked to DTC, but also obesity, at higher rates than those suggested by the World Health Organization (Id).
A related reason why excess protein is hazardous is the potential to disrupt control of a biochemical pathway called mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). This pathway has also made an important and significant role in many cancers. Excess protein stimulates this pathway, causing it to stimulate cancer cell growth. Reduction in protein consumption to a healthy level inhibits mTOR. (CDC, 2014). …show more content…

Too much protein in the body forces the kidneys to work extra hard to remove nitrogen waste products made from protein metabolism. When coupled with a lack of carbohydrates, excess protein leads to buildup of toxic ketones, substances made when the body uses its own fat cells for fuel in the absence of sufficient carbs. Ketones harm the kidneys, as well as rob the body of water, leading to dehydration. Fatigue, headache, dizziness, and heart palpitations are common signs. (CDC, 2014). Chronic dehydration can result from excess protein consumption (Martin, et. al.,

Get Access