What can excessive protein intake lead to in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions?

Excessive protein intake can indeed lead to increased risk of kidney damage, particularly in individuals who already have pre-existing kidney conditions. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering out metabolic waste products, including those generated from protein metabolism, such as urea and ammonia. When a person consumes a high-protein diet, their kidneys are required to work harder to eliminate these waste products.

In individuals with compromised kidney function, an overload of protein can exacerbate their condition as the kidneys may not be able to cope with the extra workload effectively. This can potentially lead to further deterioration of kidney function and may increase the risk of kidney disease progression. It is essential for individuals with existing kidney issues to manage their protein intake carefully and to follow a diet that supports their specific health needs.