Nutrition

Protein - the danger of overdose

by Sharon Stewart of feelinfit.com

There's no doubt that protein is an essential nutrient. But its role is
often misunderstood. Most Americans eat at least twice as much protein as they need. Contrary to myth, eating extra protein won't make you stronger and bigger. The body can only use a fixed amount. And overdosing on protein can cause particular health problems:

*Weight gain: too much protein can make you fat. Excess protein intake will be stored as fat. And many of the most common sources of protein, such as cheese and red meat, are high in fat and calories.

*Kidney and liver problems: these organs have to process the protein the body doesn't need and get rid of it-so extra strain is put on them when intake is high. People with existing kidney and liver problems should limit their intake.

Older people should see their physician to ensure protein intake does not
exceed kidney capacity.

Tips:
*Aim to eat small amounts of protein foods with each meal rather than all in one sitting.

*Go for the low-calorie option by selecting low-fat protein foods.

*There is plenty of protein in food - protein powders and supplements aren't necessary.

Have a great week!

Sharon Stewart - Founder of Feelin' Fit Online Health & Fitness Center. Twenty years in the health and fitness industry helping others on their quest for ultimate health & fitness, now introduces a new online site exclusively for women in the 40-plus age group with advice on health & fitness related issues.

www.feelinfit.com E-mail: feelinfit@msn.com