Protein is an important constituent of the regular diet. It helps in the growth of the body. A lack of protein in one’s regular diet can cause a disease called Kwashiorkor. This disease weakens the respiratory and the circulatory system. It also leads to reduction of muscle mass, impaired resistance and brings down the growth in the body.
Adverse effects of high protein diet
There are certain potential side effects if the intake of proteins increases than the average daily level. However it has a great impact on the functioning of the kidneys. Therefore people who live on high protein diet should exercise regularly. This helps the kidney to flush out wastes from the body more effectively.
Excessive protein in diet also leads to absorbing of calcium from the bones. The acids, which are produced by the body when it digests protein, are taken in the body with the help of calcium from the bones. Therefore if the body is not receiving a calcium rich diet then the body tends to take the required calcium from the bones. In a way it increases the chances of breaking bones as the bones become weak and fragile with the absorbing of calcium.
Too much of protein can also increase the chance of allergies. Rich sources of protein like egg, chicken, and fish totally eliminates the consumption of carbohydrates. Therefore the body does not possess enough fats to break down because both proteins and fats are required for continuing the life process. This results in deficient oxidation or breaking of fatty acids and several proteins. Ultimately the outcome is the development of acidic ketone bodies. Development of acidic ketone bodies gives rise to a condition called ketosis. It is difficult to survive in such a condition because ketosis gives rise to nauseatic condition and lessens the consumption of food.
Striking the right balance
On the other hand lack of sufficient protein one’s diet is also equally harmful as protein is the key component required fro growth. Therefore, it is better to have a healthy diet, which is actually a balance of all the essential components like protein, fats, mineral, vitamins and carbohydrates. Such a diet includes vegetables, grains, pulses, plant protein and at the same time dairy products and low fat meat. Such a healthy diet helps in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
By: Robin Brain
