High Protein Diet Risks

Although high protein diets are being touted at the latest weapon in the war against obesity, do not make the mistake of confusing popularity with safety. Although higher protein diets are generally safe for otherwise healthy adults, there are some niggling dangers that prompt closer consideration before leaping into one of these plans. If you have been considering a high-protein diet, there are potential risks to weigh against the rewards of weight loss.

Potential Organ Problems

High protein diets were long thought to cause kidney problems, even among healthy adults. According to Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D., at Mayoclinic.com, we now know that higher protein diets pose little risk to otherwise healthy individuals. However, high protein intake still poses a risk if you have preexisting kidney or liver problems. Consult your doctor and examine your family health history before blindly embracing a high protein diet.

Potential Heart Problems

High protein diets are often seen operating in conjunction with low carb diets, and for good reason--meat is one of the largest protein sources available. But according to the American Heart Association, increasing meat intake without regard to dietary levels of saturated fat could cause cholesterol and heart problems down the line. Thus, if you are on a high protein diet, attempt to restrict consumption of saturated fats wherever possible. Do this by consuming lean meats like chicken, turkey and fish.

Potential Disease Risks

In addition to the increased risk of heart disease, there are other risk factors to consider. The American Heart Association warns that increased fat intake over a prolonged period of time raises the risk of certain diseases, such as diabetes, stroke and several types of cancer. So beware of remaining on a high protein diet for longer than necessary to achieve your weight loss goals.

Cholesterol Issues

Certain high protein diets (such as the induction phase of the Atkins plan) intentionally down-regulate consumption of high-carb, high-fiber foods. The American Heart Association notes that this creates a slippery slope for the emergence of heart problems, as high-carb, high-fiber foods often have cholesterol-lowering properties. Thus, your cholesterol may end up being higher while your meal choices will naturally lend themselves to a higher risk of heart disease--a two-part strike against sustaining heart health.

Malnouishment

Finally, high protein diets might leave you susceptible to malnourishment. As you will be increasing your daily consumption of proteins (and most often fats), that leaves less room in your diet for vitamin-filled foods like fruits and vegetables. An intentional or unintentional decrease in your daily consumption of fruits and veggies can lead to the buildup of vitamin or mineral deficiencies over time.