Excessive protein intake may harm weight loss patients through kidney strain and cardiovascular risks. Consider nutritional counseling referrals for balanced approach.
Although many of your patients may think that increasing protein is the key to fat loss and successful weight management , there’s a consensus in the medical community that patients should be aware that there can, indeed, be too much of a good thing.
“I feel like protein intake, although important, is grossly overemphasized in weight loss, and a strong focus on protein can miss other critical goals necessary for weight loss — chief among them caloric restriction but also fiber intake and adequate nutrients,” said Matthew Badgett, MD, internal medicine physician at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. “I discuss protein but advise to not overdo it.” While protein is one of the key macronutrients our bodies need to build muscle and repair tissue, patients should know of varying sources. “Lean proteins are a great option and can come from both animal and plant-based sources like lentils, peas, and other high-protein vegetables,” said Badgett. “That said, a balanced diet is essential. Carbohydrates and fats also play important roles in energy production, hormone regulation, and overall body function.”Protein needs vary from person to person; however, consistently consuming excessive amounts of protein can strain the kidneys, especially in individuals with underlying kidney conditions, according to Michael Richardson, MD, family physician with Carbon Health in the Boston area. “Over time, this strain can lead to permanent kidney damage,” he said. Additionally, if a diet is heavily meat-based, it may lead to a higher intake of saturated fat and cholesterol, increasing the risk for cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance, noted Richardson. Another risk associated with too much protein is high cholesterol; this is largely dependent on one’s source of protein. “Diets high in animal protein — especially red or processed meats — often come with increased calories and saturated fats,” said Richardson. “This can raise your risk of heart disease, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes. Incorporating more plant-based protein sources can help reduce these risks and support overall metabolic health.” Protein supplementation through powders added to everyday food items such as smoothies, yogurt, and oatmeal can also greatly elevate a patient’s daily protein intake. It’s important to discuss how these common practices can affect overall nutritional balance. Additionally, be sure to share with your patients that packaged or fortified foods can also cause a spike in protein consumption. While bringing up how protein can be “added” to fortified foods, it’s also important to suggest foods that are better protein sources than others. with an increase in coronary heart disease,” said Gentile. “Processed meats, like bacon and sausage, have consistently been linked to a higher risk of coronary heart disease and diabetes.” Gentile said healthier protein choices, including poultry and fish, have been associated with a lower risk for coronary heart disease. “Nuts, legumes, and soy are also associated with a decreased risk of coronary heart disease and diabetes,” she said. Another channel fueling the quest for protein is social media. Some patients may be swayed by their favorite influencers to boost protein consumption to lose weight. “I see a lot of people coming in with unrealistic protein goals they got off social media sites like Instagram and TikTok, and I also have some patients who want to remain on keto/carnivore diets even after I express my concern,” said Badgett. “And for many, we discuss optimizing what we can, such as addressing blood pressure, diabetes, or cholesterol if they plan to stay on the diet.” Ultimately, Badgett said, weight loss requires a calorie deficit and although protein matters, it can be a distraction from the former, if not careful. “To maintain lean body mass, exercise is more important that protein intake and many patients are not pushing themselves physically and would benefit more from increasing intensity rather than increasing protein intake,” Badgett said.Health goals should be personalized, according to Richardson. “I always aim to align my advice with my patients’ individual goals and lifestyles,” he said. “When they understand that my recommendations are tailored to them, they’re more likely to be engaged and on board with the plan.” Also, health providers should recognize there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to protein intake. “A patient’s needs depend on health goals, whether that’s muscle building, weight loss, or simply maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” said Richardson. “Moderation is key, and so is guidance.” More and more insurance providers are covering nutritional counseling for conditions like obesity. Suggesting this resource could help your patient have a more balanced diet. “Take a deep look into the patient’s diet and lifestyle — this is where the registered dietitian nutritionist’s expertise truly shines,” said Gentile of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. “A thorough dietary recall, paired with a lifestyle assessment, can reveal an energy intake that exceeds expenditure or uncover stressors that drive excessive snacking or elevate cortisol levels.” Gentile also suggests physicians emphasize that eating a balanced diet is vital. “Remember that we need a balanced diet in macro- and micronutrients for our bodies to run properly,” she said. “Consuming all foods in moderation is key. Eliminating or promoting a specific food group is not a long-term or healthy approach.”Comments on Medscape are moderated and should be professional in tone and on topic. You must declare any conflicts of interest related to your comments and responses. Please see our
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