If you want to save your kidneys, should you stop eating protein? Know the real reality behind this fear

News India Live, Digital Desk: Nowadays, wherever you look, there is talk of protein. Be it a young man going to the gym or a woman trying to lose weight, there is only one thing on everyone’s lips: “Increase protein in the diet.” But, amidst this ‘protein love’, there is also a fear spread. People often ask, “Friend, will eating too much protein damage my kidneys?”

This question is very valid. Regarding this, senior doctor, Dr. Saket Goyal has exposed many myths and has spoken directly. Let us understand in simple language what is the matter.

1. Is protein really the enemy of the kidneys?
This is the biggest fear. According to Dr. Goyal, if you are completely healthy and do not have any kidney disease, then there is no danger to your kidneys from high protein diet. Yes, the kidneys have to work a little harder (filtration) to digest proteins, but a healthy body handles this load easily.

But and this is a very important point if someone already have mild kidney problemthen he needs to be careful. For such people, excess protein can act as ‘fuel to the fire’ and increase the problem. Therefore, kidney patients should not consume protein powder or excessive non-veg without doctor’s advice.

2. Animal Protein or Plant Protein: Which is Better?
People often rely on meat, fish and eggs. Doctors say that animal protein has high ‘acid load’. If you eat too much of it, it puts pressure on the kidneys. In comparison, ‘plant protein’ from pulses, soya and beans is a little softer and more digestible for the kidneys. So try to eat not only chicken-mutton but also dal-roti equally.

3. Does protein cause kidney stones?
Yes, there may be a connection. When we eat too much meat and fish, the level of uric acid and calcium in the body can deteriorate, which later takes the form of stones. Therefore, drink plenty of water and maintain balance.

4. Are protein supplements safe?
Boys going to the gym are very fond of boxed powder. Experts say that if the supplement is of good quality and you are taking it within a limit, then healthy people should not have any problem. But if you’re drinking less water and emptying cans after cans, you’re putting your kidneys in trouble.

5. Should everyone eat less protein?
no way! Protein is the building block for our body. It is important for muscles, skin and hair. Don’t stop protein just because of ‘fear’.