Recently it seems like the entire wellness world has become obsessed with protein. From sugar-packed protein bars to popcorn fortified with the important macronutrient, you might be surprised to learn that most Americans actually get plenty of protein in their diets or even eat excess amounts.
Still, high-protein diets are all over TikTok and other social media platforms, with supporters claiming they can help with energy, muscle-building and more. While protein can help you feel full and is crucial for many roles in the body, there are some risks associated with eating too much protein, such as kidney problems, dehydration and digestive issues.
And focusing on protein may lead you to deprioritize other equally important nutrients, which can be a big problem. Dietitian Tip of the Day: Include Fiber in High-Protein Diets “A lot of times when people are on a high-protein diet, they’re eliminating other sources of food,” Christina Fasulo, a dietitian at UCLA Health, told NBC News. “Most people need to have a set amount of fiber in their diet, and a lot of that is getting displaced by a high protein diet.”
