Choosing a Weight Loss Plan

Protein

Loading up on protein sounds like a recipe for renal problems, but new research says that’s not so. A two-year study of popular low-carb, high-protein weight loss plans showed no drop in kidney health and function among 307 overweight but otherwise healthy adults ages 18 to 65.

These diets have been popular for decades despite apprehensions they may lead to kidney damage or failure. “Our study results help allay some of these concerns,” says lead author Allon N. Friedman, M.D., associate professor of medicine at Indiana University School of Medicine. Results are published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology.