Excessive protein consumption risks damaging children's kidney health, expert warns

A paediatric endocrinology specialist has urged the public not to blindly follow the trend of excessive high-protein consumption, particularly for children. Professor Dr. dr. Aman Bhakti Pulungan, Sp.A, Subsp.Endo(K), FAAP, FRCPI (Hon.), FIAP (Hon.) stated that protein intake exceeding the body’s requirements can increase the risk of impaired kidney function, especially in children with certain conditions. The statement was made in response to a trend of providing complementary feeding (MPASI) with large amounts of protein, based on the assumption that children can grow as tall as Norwegian footballer Erling Haaland. He revealed he had previously treated a patient who consumed 400–500 grams of protein per day through foods such as steak and protein supplements, resulting in impaired kidney function. According to him, the Indonesian population genetically has a different consumption pattern compared to communities in Europe or Africa, who have historically been accustomed to consuming higher amounts of protein. The Professor of Child Health Sciences at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, assessed that the ancestral diet of Indonesians, which was dominated by carbohydrates, remains relevant today. Based on his observations during visits to several Asian countries such as China, Japan, Vietnam, and Singapore, he noted that people in these countries still consume rice, noodles, and other carbohydrate sources as staple foods, despite having relatively tall postures. ‘In China they still eat noodles, in Japan they eat ramen and rice, and it’s the same in Vietnam. In Singapore, having nasi lemak or noodles for breakfast is not a problem. This means their diet remains balanced, not solely relying on protein,’ he said. He also reminded that children born prematurely, with low birth weight, or who experienced intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) may have different kidney function and are therefore not advised to follow a high-protein or high-calorie diet without medical supervision. ‘Protein requirements must be tailored to each child’s condition. There must be a balance between protein, carbohydrates, and fats,’ he explained. He added that fat also plays an important role in the body, especially for brain development, puberty, and hormone formation. Therefore, a healthy diet does not mean merely increasing protein consumption, but ensuring all nutrients are met in appropriate amounts. He concluded by emphasising the importance of nutritional education for the public so they do not easily follow dietary trends that may not suit the genetic characteristics and bodily needs of Indonesians. ‘This is a shared responsibility. Our genetics have not changed for hundreds of years, so our diet must be adjusted to our body’s needs, not just follow trends,’ he said.