What is a common side effect of a high-protein diet?

A common side effect of a high-protein diet is dehydration due to increased urea excretion. When protein intake is elevated, the body metabolizes the amino acids, leading to the production of urea as a byproduct. Urea must be excreted through urine, which requires additional water. This process can lead to a higher demand for hydration as the kidneys work to eliminate the excess nitrogen found in the urea. If individuals do not compensate by increasing their fluid intake, they may experience dehydration.

Other choices do not capture typical side effects as accurately. While weight gain can occur on any diet if caloric intake exceeds expenditure, it tends to be more associated with excess caloric consumption rather than an inherent effect of high protein. Increased energy levels can vary based on individual responses and overall diet composition, and enhanced muscle mass without risks oversimplifies the complexities of protein intake and physical activity, as high amounts can indeed lead to side effects such as kidney strain in susceptible individuals.