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Why too many protein supplements can be hazardous to your health
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Protein is essential for repairing muscle tissues that are broken down when working out. But ingesting too much protein can overtax your digestive tract and create a number of physical complications, including kidney stones or damage, liver problems, food allergies and even an over proliferation of Candida albicans. It is this latter condition that can manifest itself in numerous ways and often be the culprit of many autoimmune diseases, including chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, crohn's disease, meniere's syndrome and even multiple sclerosis.
Candida albicans is a diploid fungus that lives naturally in the digestive tract with other gut flora. But over time this yeast can reproduce beyond what is normal and perforate the lining of the intestines. This can create a condition called "leaky gut" syndrome. This condition, though not always recognized by doctors, is often caused by consuming too much sugar or glutens. And most whey protein powders and shakes are fraught with glutens.
Though "leaky gut" is a widely disputed condition in the medical profession, it is becoming more widely accepted as a symptom of an overtaxed digestive tract. The perforation in the intestines can create toxins in the body that recycle over and over again without leaving the body. This can lead to some fairly horrific symptoms and immunological illnesses. Leaky gut syndrome will gain more attention by those in the fitness profession as more weightlifters, bodybuilders and athletes, who have used many protein supplements for years, start to suffer from it.
Protein powder, shakes and other growth-stimulating supplements are used in abundance by most fitness buffs. There is always that proclivity toward excessive usage because of the omnipresent misconception that more is always better. There is nothing wrong with taking protein supplements in moderation in conjunction with a healthy diet. The recommended amount of protein consumption is typically 0.8 to 1.0 gram for each kilogram of bodyweight--not 1.0 gram per pound as widely suggested among many fitness experts. Of course, this recommendation will vary to some degree depending on physical activity.
The best thing to do before taking any protein supplements is to consult with your physician. He or she will know best if you have any preexistent conditions such as food allergies, for example, that can amplify into more serious problems from using certain protein supplements.
It is always best to know what you are putting into your body and to not overdo it. Most of us care what fluids and the amounts we put in our car. Aren't our bodies more important?
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