Hi

I've been using protein shakes for a year or so now, i'm aiming for muscle growth and have one two scoop shake (38g of protein) post workout. I've seen some articles online saying that too much protein and protein shakes can be bad for the liver and kidneys, what is the actual science behind this and is it something worth being concerned about?

Cheers

Olly

As long as you are staying hydrated properly then you will not have any kidney or liver issues. The science comes from your body not being able to breakdown the fluids you are putting into your kidneys and liver, but as long as you drink water you will be fine! I don't think I need to get to specific to the science I hope that was just a quick enough explanation for you, and whey protein is a great supplement!

@OllyMcCully

I agree with Nelson. When you are in high protein diet.. remember to drik a lot of water to stay hydrated. If you are dehydrated, your kidney will be at risk because its going to be hard to process the said nutrients. If you are eating too much protein, no worries..the excess protein in your body will turn in to waste.. you gonna poo poo it or urinate it. Just eat good source of protein like chicken, fish, eggs and so on.. stay away from hard digesting protein such as beef and pork. And drink plenty of water and you will be just fine.

Olly,

This is an old nutritional myth and wives tale that got its roots back in the beginning of the low-fat, high carb craze of the 1980's. Protein does require more energy and water to be digested than carbs and the liver enzymes required to aid protein digestion are different than the enzymes for carbs. The bottom line is too much of anything will damage your body. If you drink 8 liters of water in one sitting, you will die of kidney failure. The amount of protein you eat in food and supplements is safe as long as you don't go overboard and try to eat 500g of protein a day - especially if you are not built like Duane "the Rock" Johnson.

John