As a prolific bodybuilder who ate more than his fair share of protein, Arnold Schwarzenegger is determined to find out if high consumption can cause any health issues. Taking to his Arnold’s Pump Club Newsletter, Schwarzenegger revealed if high protein diets cause kidney stones.
A master of athletic performance and muscle building, Schwarzenegger has never underestimated the power of nutrition and dieting. These practices, alongside a rigorous weightlifting routine, led to him winning seven Mr. Olympia titles. During that time, ‘The Austrian Oak’ tested himself against bodybuilding greats like Frank Zane, Sergio Oliva, and Franco Columbu.
Schwarzenegger refused to gloss over any aspect of bodybuilding, especially protein consumption. Although a diet high in animal protein can help maximize muscle-building efforts, Schwarzenegger contends that it can also have unwanted side effects, like kidney stones.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Discusses If Animal Protein Consumption Is Associated With Kidney Stones
According to Schwarzenegger, some studies indicate that higher protein diets are not a direct cause of kidney stones. Instead, he blamed ‘other nutritional needs’ being ignored by individuals, which could pose health risks for those partaking in a high-protein meal plan.
“Fact or Fiction: Do High-Protein Diets Cause Kidney Stones?
Sometimes, it’s not the usual suspect that is the root cause of a health issue.”
“Studies suggest that higher-protein diets are not a direct cause of kidney stones. However, ignoring other nutritional needs while eating more protein could increase your risk.”
Specifically, the 76-year-old bodybuilding legend pointed to hydration and overall diet as keys to the prevention of kidney stones.
“Kidney stones are deposits of minerals and salt that build up in your urinary tract and are extremely painful. They tend to be associated with obesity and a lack of movement and exercise. But your diet and hydration also play a key role in prevention.”
If a diet lacks nutritional balance but includes high amounts of animal protein, kidney stones could become an issue. Arnold’s solution: drink more water, eat fruits, and vegetables while managing salt, sugar, potassium, calcium, and vitamin C.
“Some research suggests too much animal protein is associated with kidney stones, but a link only appears to occur if your diet lacks balance.
Drinking more water, eating more fruits and vegetables, managing salt and sugar, and having enough potassium, calcium, and vitamin C can all help reduce your likelihood of getting a stone, even if you follow a higher-protein diet.”
Aside from Schwarzenegger, bodybuilding veteran and expert Lee Priest has been candid about kidney health in retirement. He mentioned that regular blood checks can help anyone concerned about the state of their kidney health. He added that different doctors gave him mixed opinions on the matter.
“Normal doctors look at my stuff and they are like oh my god your kidneys are high but then when I go to a sports doctor, they say it’s normal for athletes, we see that all the time.”
Need a healthy protein-based snack? Try Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Homemade Protein Bar. It’s free of added sugars, additives, and seed oils, making it the perfect pre or post-workout snack for optimizing health.
High protein consumption can offer a host of benefits, from maximizing athletic performance to muscle growth. However, before you commit to a high-protein animal-based diet, Schwarzenegger warns that without balanced nutrition, kidney stones could cause you problems down the line.
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