Many people who lose weight often cut down on starch and instead increase protein supplementation, with the desire to both maintain a feeling of fullness for a long time and limit calorie intake. However, not all proteins are good for your health. Consuming too much red meat can speed up the process of impaired kidney function.
Protein is an essential component of both weight loss regimen and muscle building training. Protein helps maintain muscle mass, supports metabolism and creates a feeling of fullness. However, overusing red meat - a popular source of protein - has many potential risks for the kidneys.
According to a study from Denmark, the main cause of kidney failure is poor control of chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. In addition, not all proteins affect the kidneys in the same way.
Studies show that long-term consumption of red meat increases the risk of chronic kidney failure, while protein from white meat, dairy and plant products does not cause similar harm. Protein from vegetables and fruits can also have a kidney-protective effect.
When the body digests red meat, it will produce many acidic metabolites, and these substances need to be filtered by the kidneys. Eating too much red meat causes the kidneys to work too hard, which in the long run will lead to impaired function and cause chronic kidney disease.
If you are looking to gain muscle, you should consume 1-1,5 grams of protein/kg of body weight per day.
If the goal is to lose fat, the amount of protein needed will be higher, 1.5-2 grams/kg of body weight per day, to avoid muscle loss and maintain metabolism.
