Too Much Protein & Protein Metabolism

December 17, 2024 12:40 pm

We, as humans, can consume three energy sources: carbohydrates (glucose), fat (fatty acids), and protein (amino acids). They are all needed for optimal body function. Protein (amino acids) and protein metabolism are critical to the human body’s structure (muscles) and function (immune system). However, there is a possibility of  “too much protein“. All forms of nutrients are eventually converted to fat for storage. So when patients focus on a protein-rich diet and consume protein supplement drinks without accounting for the calories, they may slow or stop the weight loss and, in some cases, even gain weight after weight loss surgery. Before everyone gets alarmed and stops eating protein, I am only trying to raise awareness to keep an inventory of the protein intake, not only a measure of the protein but also the caloric intake. The images below depict different states of metabolism and protein metabolism. Please note that in the image below (in a feasting state), all consumed protein leads to fat storage if not used as a building block of protein (amino acids). This is why too much protein can cause weight gain if not used to build muscle. The key is to manage the delicate balance of taking adequate protein against what is needed to maintain healthy muscle mass and immune function. The image below shows what happens when patients do not consume sufficient protein over long periods. The body starts breaking down the muscles and converts this all to energy. In this diagram, body proteins are the muscle mass broken down into amino acids to supply the body with needed glucose and ketones to give the body energy for its functions.