Protein is an essential nutrient required by the body for growth, repair, and maintenance. It helps in the formation of muscles, skin, hair, and nails and is vital for the proper functioning of various organs.

However, excessive protein intake can have adverse effects on health. It can lead to the formation of kidney stones, osteoporosis, and even cancer. Therefore, it is crucial to keep a check on your protein intake and look out for the following three signs if you suspect it to be excessive.

1. Frequent Urination and Dehydration

If you are consuming too much protein, it can lead to frequent urination and dehydration. This happens because excess protein intake leads to the increased production of urea, a compound that is excreted by the kidneys along with urine.

The more protein you consume, the higher is the urea production, leading to increased urine output. This, in turn, can cause dehydration, as your body loses fluids and electrolytes through urine.

If you notice that you are urinating more frequently than usual, and your urine is pale yellow in colour, it could be a sign of excessive protein intake. To avoid dehydration, make sure to drink plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day.

2. Weight Gain and Body Odour

Consuming too much protein can also lead to weight gain, especially if you are not burning it off through physical activity. As protein is a calorie-dense nutrient, excess consumption results in an increase in calories and, consequently, weight gain.

Another sign of excessive protein intake is body odour. This happens because the breakdown of protein in the body produces ammonia, which is excreted through sweat.

The more protein you consume, the more ammonia is produced, leading to a strong, unpleasant body odour.

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To maintain a healthy weight and avoid body odour, make sure to consume protein in moderation and engage in regular physical activity.

3. Digestive Issues

If you are consuming too much protein, it can lead to digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, and bloating.

This happens because excess protein intake can put a strain on your digestive system, making it difficult to break down and absorb nutrients properly.

If you notice that you are experiencing digestive issues after consuming protein-rich foods, it might be a sign of excessive protein intake.

To avoid digestive problems, make sure to consume protein in moderation and accompany it with plenty of fibre-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Conclusion

Protein is an essential nutrient required by the body for growth, repair, and maintenance. However, excessive protein intake can have adverse effects on health.

It is crucial to keep a check on your protein intake and look out for the above-mentioned signs if you suspect it to be excessive. To maintain a healthy protein intake, make sure to consume a balanced diet that includes protein-rich foods in moderation and engage in regular physical activity.