Can Protein Harm Your Kidneys and Liver? – Dr.Berg on Protein Side Effects

Summary

Dr. Berg discusses the potential harm of excessive protein consumption on the kidneys and liver. He emphasizes that overly cooked protein and high intake, especially without sufficient vegetables, can strain these organs, leading to health issues like ammonia buildup and fatty liver. He recommends a moderate protein intake of 3-6 ounces per meal, depending on individual factors, and highlights the importance of stomach acidity for proper digestion. Apple cider vinegar is suggested to improve digestive acid levels, preventing indigestion and bloating.

Takeaways

• 🚫 Overconsumption of cooked protein can harm the kidneys and liver.
• 🔥 Raw or less cooked protein is easier on the liver and kidneys compared to overly cooked protein.
• 🍣 Consuming large amounts of protein, like 9-12 ounces in one meal, can strain the liver and kidneys.
• 🍚 Combining high protein intake with carbs can lead to ammonia buildup, affecting brain function and energy levels.
• 💊 Excessive protein intake can cause liver conditions like cirrhosis and fatty liver.
• 🚰 Damaged liver and kidneys can't filter waste effectively, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body.
• 🥦 Including vegetables in a high-protein diet provides a protective effect on the liver and kidneys.
• 🥗 Dr. Berg recommends consuming large quantities of vegetables, like a big bowl of salad, with meals.
• 🍽️ The recommended protein intake per meal is three to six ounces, depending on body size, activity level, and age.
• 🍋 Insufficient stomach acid can hinder protein digestion, causing issues like gas, bloating, and undigested protein.
• 🍎 Adding apple cider vinegar to meals can help improve stomach acidity and aid in protein digestion.

Q & A

Can protein consumption harm the kidneys and liver?

Yes, protein can harm the kidneys and liver if consumed in excessive amounts, particularly if it is overly cooked.

What does 'overcooked protein' refer to in the context of the video?

Overcooked protein refers to protein that has been cooked to an extent that it becomes harder for the liver and kidneys to process, as opposed to more raw or lightly cooked protein like sushi or rare meat.

At what protein consumption level does Dr. Berg suggest there might be strain on the liver and kidneys?

Dr. Berg suggests that consuming 9 to 12 ounces of protein in one sitting can strain the liver and kidneys, potentially causing damage over time.

What is the recommended amount of protein per meal according to Dr. Berg?

Dr. Berg recommends consuming three to six ounces of protein per meal, adjusting based on individual size, activity level, and age.

How can consuming too much protein along with carbohydrates affect the body?

Consuming too much protein along with carbohydrates can lead to an accumulation of ammonia, which can affect brain clarity, energy levels, and may even cause liver conditions such as cirrhosis and fatty liver.

What happens when the liver and kidneys are damaged to the point they can't filter properly?

When the liver and kidneys are damaged, they can't filter toxins effectively, leading to a buildup of toxic waste in the body and potentially causing various health conditions.

Why does Dr. Berg emphasize the importance of including vegetables in a high-protein diet?

Vegetables provide a protective effect on the liver and kidneys, reducing the stress caused by a high-protein diet and helping to maintain their function.

What is the role of stomach acid in protein digestion according to the video?

Adequate stomach acid is crucial for the digestion of protein, as it helps release enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver and gallbladder, ensuring full digestion and preventing issues like gas, bloating, and undigested protein.

How can one tell if they do not have enough stomach acid for protein digestion?

Symptoms like indigestion, bloating, acid reflux, and GERD can indicate insufficient stomach acid, which may hinder proper protein digestion.

What is Dr. Berg's suggestion for improving stomach acid levels to aid in protein digestion?

Dr. Berg suggests consuming apple cider vinegar, one to two tablespoons mixed in water with each meal, to help improve stomach acid levels and facilitate protein digestion.