Age-related effects of high protein diet on rat liver and kidney

While low-carbohydrate/high-protein diets are common for rapid weight loss, their controversial side effects warrant investigation.

This study aimed to examine age- and duration-dependent effects of high-protein diets on the liver and kidneys of adult (6 months) and elderly (18 months) rats.

Thirty-two male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: Adult Standard, Adult High-Protein, Elderly Standard, and Elderly High-Protein. After one month, we collected kidney and liver samples for histological analysis and biochemical assessment of MDA and GSH levels.  RESULTS: High-protein diets severely affected the kidneys of both adult and elderly rats. The livers also exhibited moderate degenerative changes. We found a significant increase in MDA levels, indicating lipid peroxidation. Additionally, hepatic and renal GSH levels significantly increased in elderly rats on a high-protein diet, suggesting a metabolic response to oxidative stress.  CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that high-protein diets should be applied very cautiously, especially in elderly individuals and those with existing kidney disorders.