- By Priyanka Munshi
- Thu, 13 Jun 2024 01:55 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Protein supplements can have negative health impacts, even if they can be useful for people who need to boost their protein intake. One common problem is digestive distress, including gas, bloating, and stomach cramping. This is especially prevalent if the supplement contains chemicals or if you are lactose intolerant and using whey protein. For people with pre-existing renal diseases, relying too much on protein supplements might result in excessive protein intake that, over time, can strain their kidneys.
Additionally, because the body needs more water to process this extra protein, it may lead to dehydration. Furthermore, many protein supplements contain chemicals that can harm your health, such as artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and other substances that can cause allergic reactions or disturb your gut health. There is also the risk of ingesting contaminants and heavy metals, which have been detected in several protein powders and can be dangerous if used repeatedly.
It's crucial to prioritize a balanced diet that primarily sources protein from whole, nutrient-dense foods.(Image Credit: Canva)
Moreover, an excessive emphasis on supplements may cause one to overlook whole foods, which provide a wider variety of vital nutrients. Consequently, it's critical to consider these potential negative consequences and work toward a balanced diet that gets the majority of its protein from whole, nutrient-dense foods. Thus, we've compiled all the reasons for you to stop eating protein supplements right now.
Effects On Kidney Health
Consuming protein causes the body to produce ammonia, which is then transformed into urea and excreted in urine. Consuming too much protein raises blood pressure in the kidneys, damaging them as they remove calcium and urea from the blood, according to NIH.
Raises The Risk Of Cancer
While whey protein has the potential to decrease tumor size and stop tumor growth, some protein powder brands may include heavy metals that raise the risk of cancer.
Unhealthy Weight Gain
Overindulgence in protein supplements may result in increased appetite and weight gain due to the conversion of stored calories into fat. This is harmful because the intention of the protein supplements was to encourage a healthy diet.
many protein supplements contain chemicals that can harm your health, such as artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and other substances that can cause allergic reactions or disturb your gut health.(Image Credit: Canva)
Gastrointestinal Distress
Due to its lactose content, protein powder, especially whey and casein protein, can induce digestive problems. For those who are lactose intolerant, consumption may result in increased bowel movements, bloating, nausea, flatulence, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
Also Read: Do You Know About These 4 Benefits Of Following The Paleo Diet Weekly?
Upsets Your Hormones
Did you know that soy-based protein supplements, which include a lot of phytoestrogen (a hormone that resembles estrogen), can induce hormonal disruption? The genetically modified soy that makes up up to 95% of protein supplements contains glyphosate, a substance that can lead to hormone instability, miscarriage, and birth defects, according to NIH.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)