Protein intake
Quantity
Some, especially in the fitness circle, argue that the more Protein you take, the better for your health unless you have an underlying Kidney disease or other problems. However, there are concerns regarding high protein intake.
Among others, these following three concerns seem to be the primary ones. First, you may not know whether you have underlying health conditions or not. If you have an undiagnosed kidney disease, very high protein intake can be detrimental. Second, high protein intake (particularly Leucine and several amino acids) is known to activate the mTOR pathway, which is known for its negative impact on health and longevity (it is also linked to short-term “gainz”). Third, the amount of protein that can be utilized for muscle synthesis may not be so high, after which the gain may be marginal.
- Is Too Much Protein Harming Your Health? by Kurisko & Company
- Alex Leonidas Reveals His IDEAL Diet Plan - he argues that it’s not really helpful eat more than a certain level, and that level is not so high.
- Eric Topol: Our Preoccupation With Protein Intake
In contrast, The Daily podcast stated: “Well, it’s unlikely that eating too much protein is actually going to harm you. Unless you have a specific kidney issue, we can eat a lot of protein. And it’s not going to be bad for you.” It turns out there’s no shortage of data to refute that assertion made by the _New York Times (which produces The Daily).
Quality
How about the “quality” of protein? Alex Leonidas, a vegan body builder, argues that there’s little difference in how animal and plant protein help body building. He further argues that, given the massive benefits of eating lots of fruits and vegetables, it is superior to have a plant-based diet for body building.