According to nutrition experts, a diet high in meat and excess animal protein creates a burden that makes both the liver and kidneys “fearful.”
Among the top 10 pork-consuming countries in the world, Vietnam ranks 6th with a pork consumption rate of 105.4%. Experts indicate that excessive meat consumption puts Vietnamese people at risk of various diseases.
Data from comprehensive nutrition surveys show a significant increase in meat consumption, particularly red meat, in Vietnam over the last few decades. The average consumption of meat (all types) per person per day rose from 51g/day in 2000 to 84g/day in 2010, reaching 134.5g/day in 2020, with red meat accounting for 95.5g. The recommended intake is 70g per person per day, and in urban areas, the consumption can be even higher.
Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Lam, former Deputy Director of the National Institute of Nutrition, notes that Vietnamese people are facing non-communicable diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. This situation is linked to an unbalanced diet, excessive meat consumption, and a lack of physical activity.
Vietnamese people are consuming double the recommended amount of meat. In contrast, in Japan, the average meat consumption is only about 65g per person per day.
Excessive meat consumption burdens the kidneys and liver. (illustrative image).
A meat-heavy diet causes the kidneys and liver to “cry for help”
Unhealthy eating habits, characterized by an imbalance of nutrients (high meat and animal fat intake, and low consumption of vegetables and fruits), have increased the incidence of chronic diseases related to nutrition.
Professor Lam states that high meat consumption negatively impacts kidney function. Some scientific studies have shown that children are more prone to kidney issues if they follow a diet high in animal protein.
Meat contains a lot of protein, and after breakdown, it releases excess urea into the bloodstream, leading to accumulation and kidney damage, especially when the kidneys are already weakened. Red meats, which are high in protein, can particularly contribute to various health issues, including kidney diseases.
A diet rich in meat and low in fresh vegetables and fruits also raises endogenous acid levels. The body must enhance ammonia secretion to prevent acid buildup. Consequently, the kidneys must work harder to eliminate excess acid, which can lead to diminished kidney function or worse kidney disease progression.
According to Professor Lam, high meat consumption not only burdens the kidneys but also puts stress on the liver. The body must metabolize large amounts of protein, which can strain the liver and potentially lead to liver diseases. Protein buildup in the liver may increase the risk of fatty liver disease.
Additionally, nutrition experts warn that high meat consumption can increase the body’s risk of cholesterol elevation, subsequently affecting the kidneys, liver, and cardiovascular health.
To protect overall health along with kidney and liver health, Professor Lam recommends reducing meat intake to 60-70g per day (for cooked meat), equivalent to about 100g of boneless raw meat, and increasing the consumption of fish, seafood, and legumes. People should also diversify their diets and include more vegetables in every meal.
Moreover, it is essential to establish and maintain a healthy lifestyle, increasing physical activity according to age, body condition, and any existing health issues.
Furthermore, regular health check-ups are necessary for early disease detection. If individuals have health issues related to their diet, they should consult a nutrition expert for appropriate dietary adjustments.
