Does Protein Powder Increase Uric Acid in the body? What Science Says!

Introduction

Demand for dietary supplements for fitness is high these days, especially protein powder, which has been the most consumed formula by fitness enthusiasts.  Studies claim that consumption of protein powder can increase the amount of uric acid in the body. Excessive increase in uric acid may lead to kidney issues or gout. Keep reading to know how protein powder and uric acid are interlinked, types of protein formulas, and the safest ones that do not cause uric acid ailments.

What is uric acid, and why does it cause concern in the body?

Uric acid is the byproduct formed during the metabolic breakdown of purines. Purines are the chemical compounds found in certain drinks and foods. Usually, the uric acid gets excreted through urine, after it gets dissolved in blood and is then excreted in the kidneys. When the body fails to remove the uric acid, its quantity increases and gets stored in the joints. Uric acid forms a sharp structure in the joints, known as gout. Gout is a type of arthritis that is highly painful and damaging to joint health. The excessive amount of uric acid in the body is called hyperuricemia, which causes metabolic disorders and kidney stones. Let’s break down how Protein Powder increases uric Acid in the body.

Types of protein powders and their ingredients:

Protein powders

There are various forms of protein powder available in the market, and each type has a different connection to uric acid levels. Here is a quick review:

1. Whey Protein

During the process of cheese-making from milk, whey protein is derived as a byproduct. It is a widely used ingredient in most supplements. It comes in two forms:

• Whey isolate – this form of whey is well filtered to remove most lactose and fats. It has a lower amount of purine.
• Whey concentrate – comparatively, it has all carbohydrates, fats, and may contain purines.

Can Whey Protein Powder Increase Uric Acid? Well, excessive consumption of whey protein, a person with kidney issues, or gout may have high uric acid in the body.

2. Casein Protein

Casein protein is also a milk derivative, and it takes longer to digest than whey. It too has purines; its high intake may enhance uric acid and affect sensitive people.

3. Plant-Based Proteins

Plant-based proteins are lower in purines and are safe to consume in terms of uric acid levels in the body. Some of the plant-based proteins include pumpkin seed, rice, hemp, soy, and pea.

4. Collagen and bone soup proteins

Protein extracted from animal tissues and bones is high in purines; it has the potential to enhance the level of uric acid and cause gout issues.

Is it possible for Protein Powder Increase Uric Acid?

The primary concern: Does protein Powder Increase Uric Acid? The probability of an increase in uric acid due to protein powder totally relies on the metabolic health, types, and amount of protein consumed. Here is how it boosts uric acid:

• Excessive protein consumption: high protein intake, mostly from animal extract can lead to more purine metabolism that results in increased uric acid.
• Purine rich formula: protein powders, mostly from animal sources have natural purines that boosts uric acid.
• Sugar and additives: protein powders containing fructose and sugars can lead to higher production of uric acid in the body.
• Kidney functions: A poorly functioning kidney will fail to remove the excessive uric acid from the body and cause buildup.

However. Consuming good-quality protein powders like whey isolate and plant-based proteins does not boost the level of uric acid.

Who should be cautious?

People with the following conditions must be cautious while using protein powder:

• Individuals with kidney disease as a genetic issue run in the family tree
• Family history of hyperuricemia or gout

Caution:

• Avoid high-purine foods like seafood, alcohol, and red meat
• Drink a lot of water or purine-free fluids to stay hydrated
• Avoid a sedentary lifestyle and stay active to boost metabolism

How to choose the healthy protein powder that does not boost uric acid: Best picks:

• Soy protein
• Pea protein
• Whey isolate (moderate amounts)
• Hemp protein
• Rice protein

What to use in a moderate amount or avoid:

• Protein from animal collagen and bone soup
• Whey concentrate (person with gout issues)
• Protein powders containing fructose or sugars

How to naturally reduce uric acid in the body?

• Consume a high fiber diet, including veggies and fruits, to flush uric acid
• Stay hydrated with required water intake
• Do not overconsume protein and crash diets
• Minimize the consumption of organ meat, red meat, and alcohol

Conclusion

Protein Powder Increases Uric Acid: If the protein powder contains higher purines, it may cause gout. But plant-based protein powders are considered safe as it has less purine and do not cause high uric acid in the body. Therefore, if you are looking for protein formulas and better effects, then always choose the ones with less purine and stay hydrated. Listen to your health and always consult experts if you have a family history of kidney or gout issues, before trying any protein supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does Protein Powder Increase Uric Acid in all consumers?

No, people with normally functioning kidneys can deal with the increase in uric acid from protein powder. However, people with gout and kidney issues can have issues with increased uric acid levels.

2. Is plant-based protein powder good for uric levels?

Yes, plant-based protein powders like rice, soy, pea, and hemp proteins contain less purine, which does not boost uric acid levels.

3. What is the best quantity of protein powder for regular intake?

Consumption of 1 to 2 scoops a day is considered safe. It is always better to get your total protein from your diet instead of supplements only.

4. Can whey protein cause gout?

High protein consumption with other factors like family history, high purine diet, and dehydration may contribute to gout-like ailments in sensitive people.

5. A person with a high uric acid concentration in the body can have protein powder?

Yes, choosing plant-extracted protein powders that are low in purine can be consumed under the supervision of a health expert.