Before I get into any dietary recommendations, I want to make it clear that I am not a proponent for “one diet to rule them all.” Nor do I find much use for extremism in diets. I don’t even like the word “diet.” Too many “experts,” and far too much hearsay, have completely ruined that word.
What I have found is that different seasons in life, and certainly different phases of healing, require different manners of nourishing the body.
For those struggling with Lyme disease, autonomic nervous system imbalances (dysautonomia), autoimmune conditions, or any number of other chronic issues, a diet with too much protein could be standing in the way of your healing.
How much protein is too much?
We absolutely need protein in our diet. In fact, our daily protein intake should fall between 40-60 grams. Eating within this range is enough to replace the old proteins used for the day-to-day functions of our body (e.g. hormonal signaling, detox, digestion, structural support).
However, too many of us are eating well above 100 grams per day!
This excess is a burden, not handled well by the body. It is further complicated by other conditions affecting the biological terrain: stress, toxins, nutrient deficiencies, genetic and epigenetic factors.
Our biological terrain, the supportive network for our cells, takes the biggest hit from excess protein. When our body has too much protein to process, the cup runs over and is stashed in the terrain.
Proteins are forced into blood vessels, lymph, and connective tissue. This results in reduced blood flow, clogged lymph, and poor exchange of information between cells.
When protein intake is optimized, you can expect:
- Organs to be able to rest and reset
- Build-up of the biological terrain for healing
- Improvement of signaling for self-regulation
Repairing Damage From Excessive Protein
#1 – Reduce Animal Protein
Quality amino acids, the building blocks of protein, should be the dietary focus no matter what our state of health. This means placing more of an emphasis on plant proteins rather than animal proteins.
Meat is a very dense source of protein. While it may be a complete source (i.e. it meets all our daily essential needs for protein), too easily we can overshoot what is optimally required for vitality, healing, and repair.
Animal proteins have their place. However, when healing from a chronic or complex condition, plant-based proteins offer more leverage for getting you back on your feet.
#2 – Broaden Plant Variety
By shifting to a plant-focused source of protein, our total protein intake naturally settles into an easier to manage range. This way, our body gets the necessary nutrients it needs to heal, and thrive, with efficiency that propels healing.
Nitrogen is an essential component to constructing amino acids and, therefore, proteins. When we get nitrogen, primarily from plants, it increases one of the most potent anti-inflammatory molecules called nitric oxide1.
While all plants have some amount of nitrogen, the following foods are ideal sources:
- Avocado
- Cauliflower
- Green peas
- Green beans
- Garlic
- Asparagus
- Lentils
- Quinoa
- Nuts/seeds (Brazil nuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, pecans, walnuts)
#3 – Replenish Minerals
Excess protein in our biological terrain will form bonds with vital minerals, locking them down and making them unavailable. Minerals are also mined out of the skeletal system to neutralize the acidic environment created by too much protein.
Once the dietary protein emphasis is shifted, the body begins to remove the proteins deposited in the biological terrain. This frees up bound minerals, but we also need to rebuild our depleted mineral reserves.
Magnesium, manganese, and zinc are particularly key nutrients that should be added via supplementation.
#4 – Support Heavy Metal Clearance
It is imperative to address this step with the assistance of competent practitioners, savvy to methods aligned with lifestyle change, nutrient support, and epigenetic-genetic factors for safe heavy-metal detoxification.
Regardless of the source of intoxication, heavy metals are persistent and pervasive in all of us. Once the protein burden to the biological terrain is lifted, metals will start clearing depending upon the constitution and vitality of the person, the nutrients available, and the supportive therapies that not only assist in detox, but also strengthen the body through the process.
#5 -Strengthen Organs
Several organs require restoration after over-compensation for excess protein. The liver and pancreas respond to excess protein by increased gluconeogenesis (generating glucose out of protein) and increasing insulin.
The kidneys are taxed by trying to maintain the pH balance and buffer the acidic burden, created by too much protein. Other major detox organs (i.e. colon, skin, lungs) are also overworked by the attempt to excrete extra protein, which will compete with the ability to eliminate other toxins.
One of the best ways for you to be your best advocate and strengthen your own organs after protein excess, or after any affliction for that matter, is through at-home therapy. Check out the Optimum 8 Therapies for at-home options with the most healing effect.
Less animal protein, and more plant protein, may be of use for only a season, or perhaps, it will be an adjustment for the rest of your life. It is important to remember that your body was elegantly designed and dynamically responds to its needs, moment to moment. While feeding your body with clean food is of utmost importance, clean water, air, thoughts, relationships, and love are equally paramount to any healing protocol.
References
1. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2010 Oct 12; 107 (41): 17716-20.
