Excess protein powder among gym-goers may harm kidneys, warns health advisory

For healthy living and fitness, young women now go to the gym along with young men. Alongside exercise and other physical work, protein powder is also added to the diet. Different kinds of protein are taken for bodybuilding, building muscle strength, repairing muscle wear and tear after workouts and keeping weight under control.

Protein powder is mixed in milk or water and drunk. Because of hectic lives and growing work stress, people also take the powder to make up for the protein they do not get from food.

According to the information, taking protein powder in the right quantity and the right way helps in muscle recovery. But in the name of fitness and weight loss, many people take very large amounts of protein. It says that more protein than needed in the diet can harm the body's organs. Excess protein directly affects kidney health and can even lead to kidney failure.

Protein supplements strengthen muscles, but taking them the wrong way affects the liver and kidneys. After starting large doses of protein powder, several changes show up in the body in the first few days. No supplement should therefore be taken without proper information, it says. Some supplements sold in the market are safe, but taking them the wrong way and in excess carries a risk to the kidneys.

Symptoms of kidney failure include swelling around the eyes and on the ankles, frequent urination at night, foamy urine and pain in the lower abdomen.

The information also says protein powder should not replace a full meal; instead, protein-rich foods should be part of daily meals. It adds that the kidneys need plenty of water through the day to flush out the waste produced after protein is digested.

On quantity, it says healthy people leading an ordinary life need 0.8 gram to 1 gram of protein in their diet. Those who lift weights regularly or exercise heavily need 1.2 grams to 2 grams. It therefore says more protein than needed should not be taken.

The information is for general awareness only and does not claim to be a treatment. People are advised to consult their doctor before trying any remedy.