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Side Effects Of A High-Protein Diet

Most of us indulge in a high-protein diet always in order to shed a few extra pounds. We cut down on the intake of starch and carbohydrates and make our meals rich in protein content.

A high-protein diet may satisfy your hunger; however, it has long-term side effects associated with it on the body. The body also gets deprived of the other essential nutrients that are required for its proper functioning.

Protein is essential to keep the body running. The body breaks down protein into essential amino acids that play a vital role in the the functioning of the human body and its cells. But, too much of it can cause health hazards.

A recent study has also revealed that people who are on a high-protein diet are four times more likely to die of cancer or other critical diseases. Likewise, there a few more side effects of indulging into a high-protein diet to shed more weight.

Therefore, in this article, we at Boldsky will be listing out some of the side effects of having a high-protein diet always. Read on to know more about it.

 Constipation

Constipation

Excess of protein has adverse effects on the intestines. A protein-rich diet restricts one from having fibre-rich foods. It is one of the main reasons of constipation along with other intestinal irritations.

 Causes Bone Loss:

Causes Bone Loss:

A high-protein consumption causes loss of calcium from the bones. Calcium is also lost through the urine and is excreted via the kidneys. Thus, this condition causes bone loss.

 Heart Diseases:

Heart Diseases:

A protein-rich diet is high in bad cholesterol and saturated fats. This paves a way for the development of high LDL cholesterol levels in the cardiovascular system. Thus, a high-protein diet puts the heart at a major risk.

 Nutritional Deficiencies:

Nutritional Deficiencies:

A high-protein diet also causes nutritional deficiencies. While focussing on a high-protein diet, we tend to ignore other vitamins and minerals that are important for the body too.

 Risk Of Cancer

Risk Of Cancer

Cancer is the major side effect of following a high-protein diet. It contributes to the cancer cell growth. A lack of fibre and carbohydrates in the diet and focussing only on protein-rich foods can lead to colorectal cancer.

 Kidney Stones

Kidney Stones

Excess of protein consumption can lead to kidney stones. Kidney filters the protein and puts the organs under an immense stress when on a high-protein diet. The animal protein contains purine that indirectly leads to the formation of kidney stones.

Story first published: Friday, March 18, 2016, 13:06 [IST]
Read more about: protein