According to nutrition experts, a diet high in meat and excessive animal protein puts a strain on both the liver and kidneys.
Among the top 10 pork-consuming countries in the world, Vietnam ranks 6th with a pork consumption/production rate of 105.4%. Experts warn that excessive meat consumption puts the Vietnamese population at risk for various health issues.
Results from national nutrition surveys indicate a significant increase in meat consumption, particularly red meat, in Vietnam over the past few decades. While the average meat consumption per person was 51g/day in 2000 and 84g/day in 2010, by 2020, it had risen to 134.5g/day, with red meat accounting for 95.5g, exceeding the recommended intake of 70g/person/day. In urban areas, meat consumption may be even higher.
Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Lam, former Deputy Director of the National Institute of Nutrition, stated that the Vietnamese are facing non-communicable diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. The root cause of this situation is linked to an unbalanced diet, high in meat and low in physical activity.
Vietnamese people are consuming twice the recommended amount of meat. In contrast, in Japan, the average meat consumption is only about 65g/person/day.
High meat consumption burdens the kidneys and liver. (illustrative image).
A high-meat diet causes the kidneys and liver to “cry for help”
The unhealthy eating habits and imbalanced nutrient intake (high in meat and animal fats, low in vegetables and fruits) among the Vietnamese have led to an increase in chronic nutrition-related diseases.
Professor Lam noted that high meat consumption adversely affects kidney function. Some scientific studies have indicated that children are more likely to experience kidney issues if their diet is high in animal protein.
Since meat contains a lot of protein, its breakdown releases excess urea into the bloodstream, leading to accumulation and damage to the kidneys, especially when they are already weakened. Particularly, red meats, which are high in protein, if consumed in large quantities, can lead to various health problems, including kidney diseases.
A diet rich in meat and low in fresh vegetables and fruits also increases endogenous acid levels. The body must enhance the excretion of ammonia to prevent acid overload. As a result, the kidneys have to work harder to eliminate excess acid, which can lead to diminished kidney function or worsen existing kidney disease.
According to Professor Lam, high meat consumption not only burdens the kidneys but also places pressure on the liver. The body must break down large amounts of protein, which can strain the liver and potentially lead to liver diseases. Protein accumulation in the liver may also increase the risk of fatty liver disease.
Furthermore, nutrition experts warn that a high meat diet can increase the risk of cholesterol levels, which may adversely affect the kidneys, liver, and cardiovascular health.
To protect overall health and the health of the liver and kidneys, Professor Lam recommends that people should reduce their meat intake to 60-70g/day (for cooked meat), equivalent to about 100g of raw boneless meat, while increasing the consumption of fish, seafood, and legumes. Individuals should also diversify their food intake and increase vegetable portions in every meal.
In addition, everyone should adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle, incorporating regular physical activity that is appropriate for their age, physical condition, and any existing health issues.
Moreover, it is essential for the public to undergo regular health check-ups for early disease detection. When facing diet-related health issues, individuals should consult a nutrition expert for tailored dietary adjustments.
