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High Protein Diets: The Hidden Kidney Stone Risk
1 May
Summary
- Excessive protein intake can lead to kidney stones, especially uric acid stones.
- The body breaks down animal protein into purine, a precursor to uric acid stones.
- Recommended daily protein is around 55 grams for a 150-pound person.
The current wellness trend favoring high protein intake may pose risks to kidney function. Dr. Tara Narula, a medical correspondent, explains that kidneys filter blood and produce urine, and their function can be impacted by diet, hydration, and genetics.
One concern is the formation of uric acid stones, which stem from purine, a breakdown product of animal protein. Diets rich in beef, chicken, or seafood can increase uric acid, potentially leading to kidney stone crystallization. Symptoms of kidney stones include severe pain, fever, chills, and nausea.
The American Heart Association recommends about 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight daily for adults. The new federal dietary guidelines suggest slightly more, around 0.55 grams per pound. For a 150-pound person, this equates to approximately 55 grams of protein.
Risks emerge when protein intake significantly exceeds these recommendations, reaching two to three times the advised levels, particularly without adequate hydration or consumption of fruits and vegetables. Health experts suggest incorporating plant-based proteins like legumes, beans, nuts, and tofu as an alternative to solely relying on animal proteins to promote kidney health.
