Can you eat too much protein?

Question

I know that you're supposed to eat one gram of protein per pound you weigh. I weigh 110 lbs. but sometime eat more than 110 grams of protein a day. As long as I keep my calorie consumption at a reasonable level, is it ok to eat this much protein (like 140-150 grams)?

Answer 1

I wouldn't worry too much about consuming too much protein. Your body will just get rid of what it does not need anyway. It's not like you are consuming two or three times your daily requirements so don't sweat it. It's good to see that you are making a conscious effort to get enough protein.

Answer 2

Yes, you can eat too much protein. However, overdosing is certainly rare and an occasional day of 140 - 150 grams is certainly not health threatening. Too much protein can lead to gout and kidney / liver problems. People on the Atkins or Atkins like diets to be aware of this.

The 1 gram per pound of body weight was / is a recommendation for atheletes, those looking on taking on weight, or body builders. I do not think it applies to regular Joe's. The USDA recommends about 60 grams of protein for the average individual.

Additional protein will be tacked on as fat if your body doesn't use it (much like any additional calories). If it needs protein to build muscle, it will. Also, keep in mind, consuming additional protein will not magically build muscle -- weight training and fitness are required for that to happen (as well as protein and rest).

Answer 3

Absolutely and your kidneys can suffer from it. Creatinine is an amino acid that is filtered through the kidneys and appears in the urine. There are other possible side effects that may be linked to too much protein in a diet.

Answer 4

You can eat too much protein so try to balance your diet a little more for variety.