Does whey protein harm the kidneys? Should you drink it if you’re trying to lose weight?

R4U1R0DR1GU3Z

Hey guys!!! I’m halfway through losing 80 pounds. I’ve been lifting weights to increase muscle mass and burn more fat. I incorporated whey protein, gold standard, two weeks ago. Today I heard from someone that protein hurts the kidneys, that I shouldn’t be drinking it if I’m trying to lose weight and that I shouldn’t even be lifting weights but rather doing cardio. I think it’s bull, but I still wanna run it by you guys.

middlehaitch

You don't mention your stats, what your calorie intake is, nor how much protein you are ingesting.
In general, unless you have prior kidney problems, you shouldn't have any trouble with excess protein.
In general, again, when on a deficit and lifting .8-1g per lbs of lbm or mid range BMI is a good goal.

Cheers, h.

sijomial

Today I heard from someone that protein hurts the kidneys.
False, unless you have a pre-existing kidney condition it's not an issue.
Protein shakes are just liquid food, they aren't a drug - just a useful supplement if you struggle to hit a suitable protein goal. (That protein goal is usefully higher when losing height and training hard.)


I shouldn’t even be lifting weights but rather doing cardio
Awful advice. Using your muscles is one of the big three items that protects you from excessive muscle loss while losing weight. Strength training, higher than usual protein intake, avoiding excessive and prolonged calorie deficit.

Cardio and strength training should be part of your lifestyle whether losing, gaining or maintaining - they are good for you!

Tacklewasher

^^ What they said

R4U1R0DR1GU3Z

Thank you so much guys!!!! Todays protein shake will be even more delicious!!!

sgt1372

OP: I lost 40# in 6 months and have maintained the weight lost for the past 14 months on a high protein diet (0.8-1.2g/# BW), which has been supplemented w/a lot whey protein, and my kidneys are fine.

I also gained strength and reduced my BF to 10% as measured by hydro, over the same time period, by doing BOTH progressive weight lifting AND cardio (mainly rowing).

So, in my experience, the advice you got was pure nonsense.

R4U1R0DR1GU3Z

Thank you so much!!! I feel silly now but I’m glad I asked, now I have the information to back up my choices.

hesn92

I have also heard people say that whey protein powder is bad for you but I have always just ignored it haha. Good to know they are wrong.

diannethegeek

R4U1R0DR1GU3Z wrote: »

Thank you so much!!! I feel silly now but I’m glad I asked, now I have the information to back up my choices.

Aw, don't feel silly! It's really hard to sort through good information and bad. There is just so much misinformation floating around about diets that it bombards us all the time. I'm glad you asked, too. The answers helped you out and they'll probably help others who see this post but never thought to ask.