Does a High-Protein Diet Cause Depression?
While high-protein diets are sometimes touted as health-conscious weight-loss solutions, they are associated with many risks. Mayo Clinic nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky warns that while high-protein diets are safe as short-term solutions, they can be dangerous when consumed over long periods of time. High-protein diets are associated with osteoporosis, liver disease, kidney stones, vitamin deficiency, constipation and other complications. Over an extended time period, high-protein diets can negatively affect brain chemistry, leading to depression and other mood disorders. To minimize risk, people with a history of mood disorders should avoid high-protein dieting, except under the advice of a qualified professional.
