EMAIL THREAD

Excess Protein Leads to Calcium Loss?

Can someone explain that one to me?

Wed. May 30, 3:35pm

http://www.westonaprice.org/mythstruths/mtbones.html

Hi, copy and past this website. This may help you!

Thursday, May 31, 2007, 8:11 AM

Whatever you do, don't give credence to the Weston A Price organization on nutrition!

"While patients tend to assume that boosting their calcium intake will ensure strong bones, research clearly shows that calcium intake is only part of the issue and that simply increasing calcium intake is an inadequate strategy. No less important is reducing calcium losses. The loss of bone mineral probably results from a combination of genetics and dietary and lifestyle factors, particularly the intake of animal protein, salt, and possibly caffeine, along with tobacco use, physical inactivity, and lack of sun exposure.

Animal protein tends to leach calcium from the bones, leading to its excretion in the urine. Animal proteins are high in sulfur-containing amino acids, especially cystine and methionine. Sulfur is converted to sulfate, which tends to acidify the blood. During the process of neutralizing this acid, bone dissolves into the bloodstream and filters through the kidneys into the urine. Meats and eggs contain two to five times more of these sulfur-containing amino acids than are found in plant foods.3

International comparisons show a strong positive relationship between animal protein intake and fracture rates. Such comparisons generally do not take other lifestyle factors, such as exercise, into account. Nonetheless, their findings are supported by clinical studies showing that high protein intakes aggravate calcium losses. A 1994 report in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that when animal proteins were eliminated from the diet, calcium losses were cut in half.4 Patients can easily get adequate protein from grains, beans, vegetables, and fruits."

There's more in this article on other issues involved with osteoporosis, such as sodium and caffeine and mineral intake.

Link

Thursday, May 31, 2007, 9:53 AM

9:53- thanks for the article, helpful. Overall, I'm getting the impression that animal protein should reallybe kept to a minimum.

Thursday, May 31, 2007, 3:58 PM

To the OP;

From the articels I've read, I think it's best if you focus on your Calcium intake, because it is not only excess protein that MAY lead to Calcium loss. Colas can weaken your bones and not getting enough of certain vitamins can block the absorption of Calcium.

if you are asking about calcium because you are worried about your bones, I've read many times that weight bearing exercises help keep your bones strong. Unless you are eating a rack of ribs with a side of beef, I wouldn't stress your protein intake too much.

Thursday, May 31, 2007, 5:03 PM

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