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Do regular high protein diets have potential health risks on kidney function in athletes?
1Department of Physiological Chemistry, Institute of Physical Education and Kinesiotherapy, Free University of Brussels, Belgium.
Summary
High protein intake in athletes, including bodybuilders, does not appear to harm kidney function. Studies show renal clearances remain normal even with protein consumption up to 2.8 g/kg body weight.
Area of Science:
- Sports Nutrition
- Renal Physiology
- Exercise Metabolism
Background:
- Excessive protein and amino acid intake may negatively impact kidney function.
- Limited evidence exists regarding the renal effects of high protein consumption in athletes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential renal consequences of high protein intake in bodybuilders (BB) and other well-trained athletes (OA).
- To assess if high protein diets in athletes pose risks to kidney function.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 7-day nutrition records for BB and OA groups.
- Collection of blood and urine samples to evaluate renal function markers.
- Measurement of plasma concentrations, renal clearances (creatinine, urea, albumin), and nitrogen balance.
Main Results:
- Bodybuilders (high protein intake) showed higher plasma uric acid and calcium levels but maintained normal renal clearances.
- Both groups achieved a positive nitrogen balance above 1.26 g/kg/day protein intake.
- No significant correlations were found between protein intake and creatinine clearance, albumin excretion rate, or calcium excretion rate.
Conclusions:
- Protein intake below 2.8 g/kg body weight does not seem to impair renal function in well-trained athletes.
- Current evidence suggests athletes can consume high protein diets without compromising kidney health based on the studied parameters.