A paediatrician, Dr Sivaranjani Santosh, took to social media to raise concerns about too much protein consumption among young adults. “Seeing so many young adults coming with the creatine of 1.41 or 1.5 mg per dl. The kidneys are going for a toss. They are eating too much protein. Much more than what is recommended. Much more. And protein powders. The recommendation is for 1.05 grams of bodyweight to 0.85 grams of protein, or 20 per cent of the calories should come from protein, from 1-3 years of age. Children eating 2-2.5 grams more protein a day (sic),” Dr Santosh pointed out on Threads.“Elevated creatinine levels can be a concerning sign for kidney function, especially in young adults consuming high amounts of protein,” said Dr Viswanath Billa, senior consultant nephrologist, Zen Multispeciality Hospital, Chembur, Mumbai.Creatinine is a waste product generated from muscle metabolism, and its levels are often used as an indicator of kidney health. Dr Billa explained that a serum creatinine level of even 1.2 mg/dL is considered to be on the higher side of the normal range, and for some individuals, can signal a need for further evaluation, including other kidney function markers. “Excessive protein intake, whether from dietary sources or supplements, can place added stress on the kidneys, especially in those with pre-existing conditions. Young adults, motivated by fitness trends or bodybuilding, may inadvertently overtax their renal function by consuming large quantities of protein. It’s essential to consider both the source and quantity of protein in the diet,” said Dr Billa.When this excessive intake is paired with poor hydration or other health issues, it can put extra pressure on the kidneys and lead to higher creatinine levels, which can signal potential kidney strain, added Dr Mahesh Prasad, senior consultant, nephrology, KIMS Hospitals, Thane.In addition to dietary adjustments, young adults should be educated on proper hydration and the importance of regular kidney function check-ups, especially if they engage in high-protein diets or intense physical activity. “Encouraging balanced nutrition and understanding individual health needs can help prevent long-term renal issues. Consulting with a healthcare professional is vital for tailored advice, especially for those with abnormal lab results,” said Dr Billa. Are you having too much protein? (Photo: Freepik)Dr Prasad shared the following key recommendations:Stick to recommended protein limits – For active individuals, protein intake should not exceed 1.8 grams per kilogram of body weight each day. Ideally, this should come from natural food sources like lentils, eggs, dairy, lean meats, and nuts.Story continues below this adAvoid early use of protein powders – Protein supplements should not be used before the age of 14 to 15, and only if there is an apparent dietary deficiency. View on Threads Read supplement labels carefully – Choose products that do not have unnecessary additives like caffeine, sugars, erythritol, and artificial ingredients. Look for brands that have been tested by third parties and offer clear labeling.Stay well-hydrated and monitor kidney function – People on high-protein diets should ensure they drink enough water and get regular kidney function tests to catch early signs of kidney stress.Also Read | Amid reports of paneer being the most adulterated food item, some alternatives vegetarians can eat to fulfil their protein requirementsDr Prasad cautioned that the kidneys often do not show symptoms at the beginning of dysfunction.“Being proactive now can help prevent serious health problems later. There is also an urgent need for more transparency, third-party testing, and stricter quality control in the dietary supplement industry to ensure consumer safety,” said Dr Prasad.Story continues below this adDISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.