Q: Is TOO much protein bad for you?

A: Oh the big debate! Reports over the years have suggested that too much is bad for your kidneys or liver. But what does the science say?

We pass the torch on this one to our friends at Precision Nutrition, who explain it best!

“It’s the difference between jogging with a broken leg and jogging with a perfectly healthy leg. Jogging with a broken leg is a bad idea. Doctors would probably tell you not to jog if your leg is broken.

But does jogging cause legs to break? No.

That’s the same thing with protein and kidneys. Eating more does increase how much your kidneys have to work, just like jogging increases how much your legs have to work. But science does not show that protein CAUSES kidney damage. Again, just like jogging isn’t going to suddenly snap your leg like a twig.”

Okay, so it’s not dangerous per say to eat too much protein, but, is there a benefit to eating more?

That also is a big NO, my friend.

There is a point of diminished returns. Any protein consumed above what your body is able to absorb and utilize will simply be stored (yup, as body fat just like any other macronutrient eaten in excess).

This also means eating more protein than recommended leaves less room in your diet for the other crucial macronutrients like carbs and fats.

Getting enough protein is HUGE for your health. A high protein diet can help increase weight loss, enhance muscle growth, and improve your overall health.

HERE ARE A FEW QUICK AND EASY WAYS TO ADD A LITTLE MORE PROTEIN TO YOUR DAY!

• Replace your morning bowl of cereal with eggs.
• Top your food with chopped almonds. Sprinkle a few tbsp over yogurt, cottage cheese, salads, or oatmeal.
• Add protein powder to your oatmeal.
• Switch out your regular yogurt for greek yogurt.
• ALMOND BUTTER!

The bottom line — getting enough protein in your diet is extremely important. And lucky for you, this CAN be easy to do!

If you struggle with maintaining habits (ugh, don’t we all?) sign up for The Lunchbox! Before you know it, you’ll be creating habits and achieving your weight loss, fitness and health goals in no time!

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