Protein toxicity

Protein toxicity with proteinuria can result in those with preexisting kidney disease, or those who have lost kidney function due to age. For otherwise healthy people, consuming over 2.0 g/kg/d, the extra protein can become a stressful stimulus for the kidney.^[1]

Additional recommended knowledge

Essential Laboratory Skills Guide

How to ensure accurate weighing results every day?

Safe Weighing Range Ensures Accurate Results

Symptoms

The first sign of kidney problems begins with microalbuminuria — a marker for kidney disease. Common causes of kidney disease include diabetes, heart disease and long term untreated high blood pressure, as well as abuse of aspirin.

Those with kidney disease are advised to avoid consumption of protein if possible, as consuming them accelerates the condition and can lead to death. Most of the problems stem from the accumulation of unfiltered toxins and wastes from protein metabolism.

It must be noted that kidney function naturally declines with age due to the gradual loss of nephrons (filters) in the kidney. Therefore, a 90-year old cannot safely consume the same amount of protein as a 20-year old.

See also

• Chronic renal failure

References

1. ^ How Much Protein Do You Need?