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Does too much protein have effects on my kidneys?

Dr Rebecca Luong

After consumption, protein is broken down and absorbed as amino acids through the gastrointestinal tract for the body’s use. Excess amino acids are converted to carbohydrate for energy or stored as fat. At the same time, this process produces urea which is a waste product excreted by the kidneys. In healthy adults, higher protein intakes were associated with greater increases in glomerular filtration rate (rate of kidney filtering waste from blood), urea in blood, creatinine in blood and urinary calcium excretion. However, it is unclear whether these changes are significant i.e. any clinical effects or meaning.

Note: Healthy adults= Good to stay within the guidelines of RDI for age and gender (0.75-1.07g/kg ideal body weight) or 15-25% of energy intake from protein. Remember for those who are muscle building, 20-30g protein at main meals and especially after training is very important. Adults with chronic kidney disease= Moderate protein intake consistent with RDI or higher protein intake from blood loss on dialysis.

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