5 Health Risks From Consuming Too Much Protein
The New York Times • • health
Key Points:
- Many packaged foods and updated dietary guidelines emphasize increased protein intake, with products like cereal and coffee drinks being fortified with protein.
- Despite this trend, research shows most U.S. adults consume more protein than necessary, with 71% of surveyed adults in 2025 trying to eat more protein, up from 59% in 2022.
- Protein is essential for health, but excessive intake—especially beyond 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight daily—may pose health risks, according to nutrition experts.
- The majority of protein consumed by Americans comes from animal sources such as beef, chicken, and cured meats, which have been linked to potential concerns like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.