Is Vegan Protein Powder Harmful to Kidneys? Navigate the research based information.

Does Plant Protein Affect Your Kidneys? Is Plant Protein bad for your Kidneys, and similar numerous questions are being asked to me on a regular basis.

The answer is No, Vegan Protein is not bad for your kidneys, but there are a few conditions associated with it, so let us go deep down the rabbit hole to understand the whole process.

I will refer to the scientific studies done on the same subject, and will also explain how the entire digestion process takes place,

So without wasting time let’s start.

Now as more and more people are embracing plant-based diets and are opting for vegan alternatives, the debate surrounding the impact of vegan protein powder on kidney health has gained attention. Concerns have been raised about whether the consumption of vegan protein powders can have adverse effects on the kidneys or in simple words “Is plant Protein bad for Kidneys?”

To understand the subject it is very important to understand Vegan Protein Powder:

Vegan protein powder is derived from plant sources such as Almonds, Flaxseed, peas, rice, hemp, soy, and more. These offer a convenient and effective way to supplement one’s protein intake, especially for individuals following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. As we all know Protein is an essential macronutrient required for various bodily functions, including muscle growth, repair, and overall health. The only issue with these ingredients is that individually most of these do not complete the amino acid profile, and hence a mix of two ingredients is required, for example, peas and rice, or Almonds and Flaxseed, or Almond and Garbanzo beans.

The Kidney Health Concern:

Now there are a few critics who argue that the high protein content in vegan protein powders may put a strain on the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney damage or impaired function. However, it is crucial to evaluate these claims based on scientific evidence rather than anecdotal reports.

If the above is the case then the same applies to any Protein isolate, since all protein isolates are highly concentrated, chemically treated with lab-made chemicals, and filled with numerous additives, preservatives, and whatnot.

There is nothing better than natural protein powders and to understand the difference between Natural Protein powders and Plant Protein Isolates please read the Post:  

What is vegan protein isolate?

So we see that if the protein powder blend comprises of natural ingredients, and is not chemically treated or has chemical ingredients present in them, they do not cause any kidney-related issues.

The more processed, concentrated and chemical-filled a protein blend is the more harmful it becomes for overall health and for kidneys too.

Now before going further let us run through the scientific research done on the topic “Is vegan protein bad for kidney?”

• A study published in the Journal of Renal Nutrition in 2018 examined the effects of a plant-based protein diet on kidney function in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study found that a plant-based protein diet did not have any adverse effects on kidney function and, in some cases, even improved certain kidney health markers.
• Another study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition in 2019 investigated the impact of pea protein supplementation on renal function and proteinuria (excess protein in the urine). The results indicated that pea protein supplementation did not have any negative effects on kidney function or proteinuria in healthy resistance-trained individuals.
• A comprehensive review published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition in 2019 analyzed multiple studies on protein intake and kidney function. The review concluded that there is no evidence to suggest that high protein intake, including plant-based proteins, is detrimental to kidney health in healthy individuals.

Consulting the Experts:

Renowned health organizations, including the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American College of Sports Medicine, affirm that high protein intake does not pose a risk to kidney health in healthy individuals. These organizations emphasize the importance of a well-balanced diet, including both animal and plant-based protein sources, to ensure optimal nutrition.

Now also let us understand the entire digestive process, Although I have explained the same in Great detail in the post:  

Protein, Everything you should be aware of.

But I will still explain the same in brief here.

So when we consume plant protein, or any food whatsoever it undergoes a series of interactions with our digestive system, liver, and kidneys. Understanding these processes can help shed light on how plant protein is processed and metabolized within our bodies. 

Digestion of Protein.

Digestion:

The digestion of plant protein begins in the stomach, where it is exposed to stomach acid and digestive enzymes. These enzymes, such as pepsin, start breaking down the protein into smaller components called peptides.

As the partially digested protein moves into the small intestine, pancreatic enzymes, including trypsin and chymotrypsin, further break down the peptides into smaller fragments called amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are essential for various bodily functions.

Absorption:

In the small intestine, the amino acids resulting from protein digestion are absorbed into the bloodstream through the intestinal lining. They are then transported to the liver via the portal vein.

Liver:

Upon reaching the liver, amino acids serve multiple purposes. They can be used to build new proteins, participate in metabolic processes, or be converted into energy if needed. The liver also plays a crucial role in detoxification, removing any harmful substances that may have been ingested along with the plant protein.

Kidneys:

The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products and excess substances from the bloodstream, including nitrogenous waste generated during protein metabolism. When proteins are broken down, nitrogen is released as a byproduct. The kidneys filter out this nitrogenous waste and convert it into urea, which is eliminated through urine.

So we see that if the Protein is highly concentrated, chemicals are used in the extraction process, laden with lab-made chemical additives, preservatives, emulsifiers etc., then the Liver will try hard to get it digested and will work overtime. Similarly, after the absorption process is completed, the leftover ammonia needs to be thrown out of the system for which Kidneys will work extra time and this is bad.

It is important to note that healthy kidneys can efficiently handle the filtration and excretion of waste products, including the byproducts of protein metabolism. However, individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions may need to monitor their protein intake, regardless of the source, to ensure optimal kidney function.

Additionally, plant proteins are generally considered to be more alkaline in nature compared to animal proteins, which are more acidic. This alkalinity may have a positive impact on kidney health by reducing the potential for acidosis, a condition in which the body becomes too acidic.

Microbiome Interactions:

Plant protein consumption also influences the gut microbiome—the collection of microorganisms residing in our digestive tract. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in various aspects of our health, including digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and even mental well-being.

Certain plant proteins, such as those from legumes, nuts, seeds, etc contain dietary fibre that acts as a prebiotic, providing nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria. This promotes a healthy gut microbiome and supports overall digestive health.

Before we conclude let’s understand “How Sheer MADness Fits into the article?”

We use simple ingredients like Almond, Flaxseed, and Turmeric as the mother ingredients. The Natural plant protein blend does not go through any chemical process, and the blend is not at all concentrated protein. Also due to high digestive fibers, the blend stands apart from the crowd of Plant protein blends generally found in the market. And the best part, it’s completely free of chemicals in any form.

Conclusion:

Plant protein undergoes a series of processes within our bodies, from digestion in the stomach and small intestine to absorption, metabolism in the liver, and excretion via the kidneys. These natural processes are well-equipped to handle the breakdown and utilization of Natural plant protein. However, individual health conditions may warrant specific dietary considerations, and it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

Also contrary to the myths circulating about vegan protein powders, scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the safety and efficacy of incorporating these products into a balanced diet. Numerous studies have found no adverse effects on kidney function from the consumption of vegan protein powders. 

As with any dietary supplement, it is essential to follow recommended guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific health concerns or pre-existing kidney conditions.

Remember, the key to maintaining good kidney health lies in an overall healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, proper hydration, and a well-rounded diet. Embrace the benefits of vegan protein powders with confidence, knowing that they can be a valuable addition to your plant-based journey.

So Is Plant Protein Bad for Kidney? While this article provides evidence-based information, always remember: Everyone is an individual, but as long as the protein blend is natural and free of chemicals, it is completely safe. Providing a short video for clarity.

Now, here are Few Facts before I finish:

These are the same lines from my book “Great Health Comes from Exercise & Nutrition”

a) Everyone is an individual, so what suits me, may or may not suit the next person.
 

b) If a person has a medical condition, a doctor’s advice and prescribed medication will only help.
 

c) While buying any protein powder from the market read the labels carefully, and Watch out for various codes, and words like Anti-caking agent, and INS 551( Also known as Silicon dioxide), All these are Laboratory made chemicals, and although approved by regulatory bodies think twice, will you consume a spoon of Silicon dioxide? And Silicon dioxide is just one product, there are numerous others like BHA ( Butylated hydroxyanisole ), BHT ( Butylated hydroxytoluene ) and the list of lab-made chemicals goes on and on with various codes, that we generally ignore.

Hence read the labels especially the ingredients list of the product before buying.

If you are interested in buying chemical-free Natural vegan Protein powder, Health drinks for kids or our delicious but chemical-free Energy bars and Protein bars shop @ Sheer MADness.

One can also buy our Products From Flipkart, Jio Mart or ONDC in India.
 

d) Exercise is the key to fitness, we should always keep in mind that exercise and nutrition are two sides of the same coin and always go hand in hand. So only nutrition will not help you attain any goals till it is not supplemented with Exercise.
 

e) Excess of anything is wrong, it can be the best nutrient-filled superfood, but one should consume only recommended quantities.
 

f) Regarding health, fitness, and nutrition, remember that Rome was not built in a day. Your discipline and consistency is the key.
 

g) It’s not only Exercise and protein that builds muscles, there are numerous other factors like a healthy gut, numerous macro and micronutrients, your body type and DNA, the amount of rest the body gets, the lifestyle an individual lives, and on and on it goes. Out of all these, exercise and nutrition are within our control, and one should focus on these two primary aspects.

h) For More benefits related to Vegan Protein Powder, I will request you to read the Post:  Muscle Growth to Health, Plant Protein Powders are the future.

i) To clear any doubt related to the topic of “Protein” I would request you to read my post  “Protein, Everything you should be aware of.”

j) And the most important part: Nothing is better than a balanced meal.

 Article by Chef Ashutosh Awasthi.

Disclaimer: Our products are a source of HEALTHY NUTRIENTS and COMPLETELY FREE OF ANY ADDED CHEMICALS.

We do not claim to cure any medical condition.

The information provided is informational, and we do not claim to diagnose or treat a person with any specific medical condition.