In a world driven by fitness and the pursuit of the perfect physique, protein shakes have become a popular choice for athletes, gym-goers, and health enthusiasts. However, amidst the glossy advertisements and glowing testimonials, there lies a dark and often overlooked reality. On Tuesday, June 27, a senior UK health official urged for 'life-saving' warning signs to be placed on protein drinks, citing the death of Rohan Godhania, an Indian-origin teenager from West London, in 2020.
According to The Mirror, Rohan's father purchased the protein shake to assist his son gain muscle because he was 'very skinny'. The 16-year-old boy drank protein shake for the first time on 15 August 2020. Thereafter, the boy was admitted to the West Middlesex Hospital, where he passed away three days later from 'irreversible brain damage.'
In this article, we spoke to Dr Sundari Srikant, Director and HOD, Internal Medicine - Marengo QRG Hospital, to learn about the hazards, the proper approach, and things to bear in mind when taking protein shakes.
Negative Consequences
Dr Srikant lists the potential negative consequences of excessive protein shake use on the renal and liver, heart, hormones, and digestive system. He stated that excessive protein intake can even cause dehydration. When used in excess, many gym supplements, such as protein powders and pre-workout supplements, can place a burden on the kidneys and liver. "This can result in liver and kidney damage, and even failure," Dr Srikant warns.
Health supplements also frequently increase heart rate and blood pressure, taxing the cardiovascular system. According to Dr Srikant, this can lead to a variety of health issues, such as heart disease and stroke.
What Is The Right Way To Use Protein Shake?
The right approach to using protein shakes is to first ensure that you are eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet. The dangers of excessive supplement use differ based on the type and amount ingested. When you think of consuming protein shakes, you should speak with a healthcare expert, such as a registered dietitian or doctor. They can provide you advice on safe and effective supplement use and assist you in determining whether a supplement is right for you, Dr Srikant said.
What To Keep In Mind?
Firstly, look for bodily signs, such as digestive difficulties or fluctuations in energy levels, and alter supplement consumption accordingly. If you notice any changes in your body as a result of the supplement, you should discontinue use and consult with a doctor, Dr Srikant advocated. He also stated that some individuals also develop diabetes after using these supplements, which include steroids.
Dr Srikant also advised getting a blood test before consuming protein shakes because it would offer you a clear image of your inside health and whether or not your body can digest it.
Also Read: Beginners Guide To Protein: Benefits, How Much To Consume, Best Time To Consume & More
Bottom Line
Consuming protein shakes can be beneficial for individuals pursuing careers in bodybuilding. However, if your goal is simply to stay fit, a well-balanced diet will suffice. Adopting a well-rounded diet in conjunction with regular exercise can result in better fitness levels without the use of protein drinks.
Finally, if you're trying out protein shakes for the first time, start with half a serving and gradually increase the amount as your body adjusts.
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided by a registered medical practitioner. However, we recommend you consult your healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment.]
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