Healthshots

By Aayushi Gupta

Published Mar 6, 2024

9 Side Effects Of Eating Too Much Protein

You require protein for various body functions, including weight management. However, consuming too much protein can have side effects on the body. Here are 9 health risks associated with it. 

Image Credits : Shutterstock

Consuming too much protein regularly can lead to dehydration, as the body requires more water to metabolise and eliminate the excess protein. This can result in headaches and fatigue as well.

Image Credits : Shutterstock

Dehydration

High protein intake in your daily diet, especially from sources high in calories and fat, can lead to weight gain if calorie intake exceeds calorie burn rate.

Image Credits : Shutterstock

Weight Gain

When protein is broken down in the body, it can release ammonia, which may contribute to bad breath in some individuals.

Image Credits : Shutterstock

Bad Breath

Excessive protein consumption can cause waste to build up in your blood, which your kidneys may not be able to remove. It can even increase the risk of kidney damage or kidney stones over time. 

Image Credits : Shutterstock

Kidney Damage

Too much protein can cause digestive discomfort, including bloating, gas, and constipation. This happens due to increased demand for digestive enzymes to break down the protein.

Image Credits : Shutterstock

Digestive Issues

Excessive protein intake can strain the liver, as it is responsible for metabolising and detoxifying the by-products of protein digestion. Over time, this can lead to liver dysfunction.

Image Credits : Shutterstock

Liver Problem

Some studies have suggested a potential link between high protein intake, particularly from animal sources, and an increased risk of certain cancers, such as colon cancer.

Image Credits : Shutterstock

Cancer Risk

Some research suggests that high-protein diets, especially those high in animal protein, may increase the risk of heart disease due to elevated cholesterol levels and saturated fats.

Image Credits : Shutterstock

Risk of Heart Disease

A diet excessively high in protein may lead to imbalances in other nutrients, such as calcium, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis and other bone-related issues.

Image Credits : Shutterstock

Nutrient Imbalances