Protein (new info)

UsedToBeHusky
UsedToBeHusky Posts: 15,228 Member
edited November 8 in Health and Weight Loss
So I have seen many times on the forums wheres people ask if it is possible to get too much protein. It is usually followed with many claiming that you can't get too much protein, and that MFP's goal is too low. Well I got curious and did some googling and discovered lots of potential harmful benefits of eating too much protein. Generally, it seems to depend on the balance with carbs and the types of protein sources that you use. But there are some potential downsides to high protein, and according to the Mayo Clinic (link provided) it is generally only recommended for 3 or 4 months, not for the long-term. I read one article that discussed the potential depletion of calcium from a bad carb/protein mix in the diet which concerns me as I do have a genetic risk for osteoperosis. Anyway, I was just posting this to get other people's thoughts. I'm curious if anyone has more information about the risks involved with the high protein diet.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/high-protein-diets/AN00847

Edited to inclue the link.

Replies

  • JMCade
    JMCade Posts: 389 Member
    I guess the old saying about everything in moderation is a good rule of thumb.
  • UsedToBeHusky
    UsedToBeHusky Posts: 15,228 Member
    Yes. Every time I see someone say that you can't get too much protein, I think, but you CAN get too much of a good thing.
  • IronSmasher
    IronSmasher Posts: 3,908 Member
    http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/nutrition/protein-controversies.html
  • Sidesteal
    Sidesteal Posts: 5,510 Member
    http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/nutrition/protein-controversies.html

    ^ This should also be read.
  • Sidesteal
    Sidesteal Posts: 5,510 Member
    Yes. Every time I see someone say that you can't get too much protein, I think, but you CAN get too much of a good thing.

    I think that the majority of what you linked wasn't new (not flaming you here, thanks for posting it). Also, it's more specifically addressing potential deficiencies from carb restriction and apparently, poor food selection causing micronutrient deficiencies.

    Lastly, there was absolutely no quantification in that article.
  • MarieNevada
    MarieNevada Posts: 395 Member
    iwhat the studies are showing now is that calcium depletion due to high protein (such as atkins) is only temporary and stops after a few months. The studies are based on very high protein intakes. If you keep your protein level at about 30% of total calories, there is no problem. It's only when you get to really high protein levels, such as on the atkins diet, or the dukan diet (i've been on the atkins diet before) that you can run into problems. everything in moderation.
  • ChrisStoney
    ChrisStoney Posts: 479 Member
    I guess the old saying about everything in moderation is a good rule of thumb.


    ^^^^this
  • MaximalLife
    MaximalLife Posts: 2,447 Member
    I guess the old saying about everything in moderation is a good rule of thumb.
    So true!
    I set my macro's to match specific goals - not specific diets. My protein is high but not insane.
    And yes, too much protein can cause issues.

    Some people are looking for the magic pill, secret macro balance or the hidden fountain of fat loss.
    At the end of the day those who succeed are those who intake less food than their bodies burn with a small deficit reflecting 1 lb per week weight loss. Not much more.

    That's the healthiest way to reach fitness goals and remain sound for years on end.
  • UsedToBeHusky
    UsedToBeHusky Posts: 15,228 Member
    http://www.bodyrecomposition.com/nutrition/protein-controversies.html

    This was helpful. Thanks.
  • UsedToBeHusky
    UsedToBeHusky Posts: 15,228 Member
    Yes. Every time I see someone say that you can't get too much protein, I think, but you CAN get too much of a good thing.

    I think that the majority of what you linked wasn't new (not flaming you here, thanks for posting it). Also, it's more specifically addressing potential deficiencies from carb restriction and apparently, poor food selection causing micronutrient deficiencies.

    Lastly, there was absolutely no quantification in that article.

    Well it wasn't the only link that I read, but that is why I posted it. I've been upping my protein for awhile, and have seen some good results in combination with my strength training. It just always concerns me when someone says "I don't think you can get too much protein." Obviously, for some people, a high protein diet can be harmful. I really just posted this to get more information than the standard responses that come with the "too much protein" question.
  • IronSmasher
    IronSmasher Posts: 3,908 Member
    No matter what, someone will always take something too far.
  • UsedToBeHusky
    UsedToBeHusky Posts: 15,228 Member
    So just to summarize the article that you posted, the risks associated with a high protein diet are diminished or non-existent in a well balanced diet that includes sufficient amounts of fiber, calcium, and potassium. If we do pursue a high-protein diet, we should be sure to include whole grains and lots of fruits and veggies. Is that correct?
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