protein shakes and only one kidney

Question
hey
my question is whether or not it is healthy for me to take protein shakes. i am an active weight lifter, lifting 3-4 times a week. i have heard and researched that taking protein shakes helps you build muscle and would like to try them. my only concern is that i have one kidney. would taking protein shakes after working out harm my one kidney?

Answer
Hi Kurt,
Thanks for your question.  Did you know that while some people only have one kidney, that others are born with three kidneys.  The body only needs one kidney, and having a protein shake will not harm the kidney.  The damage to the kidneys (no matter how many) comes when an individual begins taking in excessive amounts of protein.  This would be when the protein is more than 60% of the overall diet.  The higher the percentage, the higher the demand on the kidneys, and the increase of damage.

A protein shake after your workout would not be elevating your protein content anywhere near the dangerous range.  However,  It is more important that you take in carbohydrates after your weight workouts - not protein.  The ideal ration is 4 carbs to 1 protein.  A product called Accelerade has been developed based on this 4 to 1 ratio.  You can see more about the science behind the 4 to 1 ratio by going to the Accelerade website, or by reading the book, Nutrient Timing.

Hope this helps,
Dr. Bret
doctoremery.com

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