Denton County Living Well Magazine January/February 2016 | Page 33

you can also loss muscle mass and bone calcium. Ketosis is associated with irritability, headaches, palpitations, enhanced kidney work and, in some cases, cardiac arrest. High protein diets are high in saturated fat, which is risky for coronary artery disease and stroke. Restricting carbohydrates means restricting plant-based foods, which are rich in phytochemicals and antioxidants. How much protein do you need? There is a difference for the protein that a person needs, because it depends on the level of activity. For the semi-sedentary person, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 46g per day for women and 65g for men for the semisedentary person. For an athlete or a person that trains hard at the gym (in a diet or not in a diet), the required protein needs to increase because muscle is broken down and needs extra protein to get repaired. For this person, it is recommended 0.81.1g of protein per pound of bodyweight per day. Effects of excess protein in women and men If a person consumes more protein and calories than what their body really needs, the extra amount is stored as body fat. In women, an excess consumption of animal protein is linked to lower fertility (Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine). In female athletes there is the risk of high testosterone levels, which can lead to ovarian cancer and damage to the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. Plus, the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism states that there are risks for men and women that may include elevated toxins in the blood, nausea, diarrhea, and even death. As Marcus Tullius Cicero once said, “Never go to excess, but let moderation be your guide.” Julie Alvira, MD holds a MBA in healthcare management. She is the owner of AJBodysculpt as well as a personal fitness and nutrition coach. You can email her at [email protected] or visit her on the web at: YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/2013bodysculpt Facebook: www.facebook.com/ajbodysculptfitness North Texas Center for Sight Our mission is to provide the best eye care possible and improve your vision as much as medically possible. Full Service Optical & Eyewear Gallery Contact Lens Exam & Fitting Optometry Services: ✔Comprehensive Eye Exams Comprehensive Ophthalmology ✔Eyelid Surger B