“Protein poisoning” Does this sound weird to you? Because we all heard one thing that it is the essential nutrient for growth, repair, and building muscle. Then how comes poisoning? Strange but true, lets me explain how this happens.
When it comes to losing weight, the first thing that comes to your mind is the increase in protein in the diet. It will make you full for a longer time and thus help in achieving your target. You go to the gym and your instructor gives you a” protein dabba” or a diet with 10 eggs or non-veg daily. But have you ever wondered how much protein is needed by your body? We do not have any protein storage in the body as we do have for carbs (glycogen) and fat. Then why are we irrationally consuming this macronutrient? We all have heard from childhood that “Excess of everything is bad”. The same goes for the protein also. When you take it more than required for a longer period, then it is called protein poisoning.
Consequences of Protein Poisoning:
The liver and kidney are two main important organs that are involved in protein metabolism. Excess of protein increases the level of ammonia, urea (toxin) in the blood. Although very rare, protein poisoning could be fatal. Here, some important signs of protein poisoning which one must watch.
- Nausea
- Headache
- Weakness, fatigue
- Mood changes
- Foul Breath
- Low blood pressure
- The most important is “Weight Gain” as an excess of protein gets converted into fat. Remember “No storage form for protein”.
How much protein is in food sources?
Take Away :
Proteins are the important macronutrient that is essential for the growth of the body, but the key lies in how much to consume it. Do not follow blindly, think judiciously, understand the requirement of the body. It’s better to talk to an expert rather than do experiments at own.