Protein Deamination is Our Damnation

Do you eat a protein-rich diet? Do you take any protein supplements because you are trying to build big muscles in the gym?

Have you ever met or known someone with a protein deficiency? Someone who truly had a protein deficiency? That’s because the only people who ever suffer from insufficient protein have to live in a part of the world where food is scarce or non-existent. In places like Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and Central America. It is usually prevalent in children and newborns. During times of hunger induced by natural calamities — such as droughts or floods — or political upheaval, these countries often have a limited supply or absence of food.

Lack of protein in the diet causes Kwashiorkor. Protein is found in every cell in your body. Protein is required in your diet for your body to repair and replace cells. This is how a healthy human body regenerates cells regularly. Protein is particularly necessary for growth in children and during pregnancy. When the body is deficient in protein, growth and regular bodily functions slow down, and kwashiorkor develops. (1) (Kwashiorkor, n.d.)

Today, in the United States we are living in what is called a postindustrial world/society. A postindustrial society is marked by a transition from a manufacturing-based economy to a service-based economy, a transition that is also connected with subsequent societal restructuring. Postindustrialization is the next evolutionary step from an industrialized society and is most evident in countries and regions that were among the first to experience the Industrial Revolution, such as the United States, western Europe, and Japan. (2) (Robinson, 2013)

To reiterate, in the United States, we live in a postindustrial world/society. And as such we have no want for even the most basic of nutritional needs. And the reality is that most of us in the United States have access to and consume too much good stuff, food, and otherwise.

As such, I will demonstrate below why our health is suffering so badly in this world of plenty we call home. The short answer is…Too much protein. When we consume protein above and beyond our body’s physiological needs, our body’s innate mechanisms become the machinery that forms the basis of our damnation. Our early demise.

The following is a simplified explanation of what happens inside the human body when we consume protein above its immediate needs at any moment in time.

Deamination is the process of removing an amino group from an amino acid. This process is crucial because it allows the amino acid to be converted into a form that can be used for energy production or other metabolic processes. It is

It’s important to note that while gluconeogenesis is a critical metabolic pathway, the body generally prefers to use carbohydrates and fats as the primary sources of energy, resorting to protein catabolism as a significant energy source only under conditions of dietary deficiency or metabolic stress.

When the body uses amino acids for energy, deamination occurs in the liver, converting the nitrogen-containing amino group into ammonia, which is then converted into urea and excreted by the kidneys. The remaining part of the amino acid, which is now without the amino group, enters various metabolic pathways, including the Krebs cycle, for energy production or the synthesis of glucose or fatty acids.

Which bodily process happens first, proteolysis or deamination?

The process by which the body breaks down protein into individual amino acids is called “proteolysis.” This process involves the breakdown of the peptide bonds that link amino acids together in proteins. Proteolysis is carried out by enzymes known as proteases and peptidases. It occurs in various parts of the body, including the stomach and small intestine, where dietary proteins are digested, as well as within cells, where proteins are continually broken down and recycled. Proteolysis is a key step in protein metabolism, allowing the body to utilize the amino acids for various functions, including new protein synthesis, energy production, and other metabolic processes.

Proteolysis occurs before deamination in the sequence of protein metabolism. Here’s the typical order:

Proteolysis: This is the first step, where proteins are broken down into individual amino acids. Proteolysis happens through the action of digestive enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract for dietary proteins or by cellular enzymes for endogenous proteins.
Deamination: Once amino acids are released from proteins, they are used for various purposes. Deamination may occur if an amino acid is to be used for energy or converted into other compounds. This is the process where the amino group is removed, typically in the liver.

Proteolysis is the initial process that releases amino acids from proteins, and deamination is a subsequent step that further modifies amino acids for various metabolic needs.

When proteins are metabolized, they are broken down into their constituent amino acids. A key component of these amino acids is nitrogen. During the catabolism (breakdown) of amino acids, the amino group (NH2) is removed in a process called deamination. This process occurs mainly in the liver.

Nitrogenous wastes are a byproduct of the metabolism of proteins and nucleic acids. The digestive process breaks down proteins into amino acids, which then enter the body’s metabolic pathways, producing nitrogenous wastes.

Removing the amino group results in the formation of ammonia (NH3), which is toxic. The liver then converts this ammonia into less toxic substances, mainly urea in mammals, including humans. This conversion is part of the urea cycle. The urea is then transported to the kidneys, where it is filtered out of the blood and excreted from the body in urine.

To reiterate, nitrogenous wastes, particularly ammonia and urea, which are byproducts of amino acid deamination, are harmful to the brain, soft tissues, and the cardiovascular system due to their toxic effects, especially in high concentrations. Here’s why:

Ammonia Toxicity: Ammonia, a direct byproduct of deamination, is highly toxic, especially to the brain and nervous system. It disrupts normal cellular and neurological functions.
Urea and Osmotic Imbalance: While urea, which is less toxic than ammonia, is a safer way for the body to transport and excrete nitrogen, high levels of urea cause osmotic imbalances. This leads to dehydration and stress on cells, including those in the cardiovascular system.
Metabolic Acidosis: Accumulation of nitrogenous wastes leads to metabolic acidosis, a condition where the blood becomes too acidic. This impairs cardiovascular function and damages heart tissue.
Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Excess nitrogenous waste induces inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to tissue damage and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

The body normally converts ammonia to urea in the liver (via the urea cycle) and excretes it through the kidneys to avoid these harmful effects. However, suppose this system is overwhelmed(over-consumption) or impaired (as in liver or kidney disease). In that case, nitrogenous waste levels become dangerously high, leading to toxicity and damage beyond the body’s ability to repair.

What kind of diets result in higher levels of nitrogenous waste?

Diets that result in higher levels of nitrogenous waste are typically those rich in proteins and nucleic acids. This is because the metabolism of these macronutrients involves the removal and excretion of nitrogen:

High-Protein Foods: Foods with high protein content are the primary contributors to increased nitrogenous waste. This includes:
- Meat (beef, pork, lamb, poultry)
- Fish and seafood
- Eggs
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Legumes (beans, lentils, soy products)
- Nuts and seeds
Foods Rich in Nucleic Acids: Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) are also metabolized into nitrogenous wastes, though to a lesser extent than proteins. Foods that are particularly high in nucleic acids include:
- Organ meats (liver, kidney, heart)
- Seafood (especially sardines, mackerel, and shellfish)
- Yeast and yeast extracts

To reiterate, when these foods are digested, the body breaks down their proteins into amino acids and their nucleic acids into nucleotides. The nitrogen-containing parts of these molecules are then converted primarily into urea, which is excreted by the kidneys.

When consuming a diet high in protein, it is important to support the kidneys in effectively processing and eliminating these nitrogenous wastes. Excessive protein intake over an extended period strains the kidneys, particularly in individuals with preexisting kidney conditions.

Here is what one should expect if one consumes a high-protein diet that results in excess proteolysis and deamination.

Atherosclerosis: There is evidence that certain metabolic by-products of protein contribute to atherosclerosis and the buildup of plaques in the arteries.
Calcifications, Vascular and Otherwise: In the context of kidney disease, conditions like hyperphosphatemia (high phosphate levels) occur due to excessive protein intake. This leads to vascular and other systemic calcifications and is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Hypertension: High protein intake, especially from animal sources, increases blood pressure, a major risk factor for CVD. This complex relationship involves various factors, including changes in kidney function and fluid balance due to the handling of the by-products of protein metabolism.
Kidney Stress and Damage: The kidneys filter waste products, including those produced during deamination. Excessive deamination overburdens the kidneys, leading to or exacerbating kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease and azotemia.
Increased Urea and Uremia: As a result of excessive deamination, urea levels in the blood increase, leading to a condition called uremia, where the kidneys cannot filter it efficiently. Uremia has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, as it contributes to factors like endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffness, and inflammation.
Inflammation: Chronic kidney disease and uremia lead to systemic inflammation, which is a known contributor to cardiovascular disease.
Liver Disorders: Since the liver converts ammonia (a by-product of deamination) into urea, excessive deamination stresses the liver. In cases of liver dysfunction, ammonia may not be adequately converted, leading to hyperammonemia, which is toxic, especially to the brain.
Metabolic Effects: Chronic consumption of excessive protein, especially animal protein, has various metabolic effects, such as increasing the risk of kidney stones, altering calcium balance, affecting bone health, and impacting kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease.
Metabolic Acidosis: Deamination leads to an accumulation of acidic compounds in the body. It disrupts the body’s acid-base balance, leading to metabolic acidosis. This condition causes fatigue, rapid breathing, confusion, and in severe cases, shock or death.
Alterations in Gut Microbiota: High protein intake, particularly from animal sources, alters the composition and function of the gut microbiota. This has various implications for gut health and possibly systemic inflammation.
Electrolyte Imbalances: The process of deamination and the subsequent handling of its by-products affects the balance of electrolytes in the body, potentially leading to imbalances that affect muscle and nerve function.
Bone Health Issues: Excessive protein intake and deamination affect the body’s calcium balance, leading to bone loss and increased risk of osteoporosis.

At this point in time, I believe this is likely the most significant modifiable factor to our species overall mortality. Imagine if a pharmaceutical company offered a single pill that could prevent all of these 12 problems. Everyone would be clamoring for it, the individual that stumbled across this solution would be considered a savior of mankind.

There is a way to do this with a pill. If you still don’t see the solution, if it is not obvious, please don’t hesitate to ask me how.

Kwashiorkor. (n.d.). S10.fit. https://www.s10.fit/blogs/disease/What-is-the-cause-for-Kwashiorkor/
Robinson, R. C. (2013, November 19). Postindustrial society | Urbanization, Automation, Globalization. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/money/topic/postindustrial-society

Protein…Too Much of a Good Thing.

Are there any health-related problems created by consuming too much protein?

Author: Find my solution at the end…8)

Yes, consuming too much protein can potentially lead to several health issues. Here are some of them:

1. Kidney Damage: High protein diets, particularly animal protein, may strain the kidneys and lead to kidney disease, especially in people with pre-existing renal conditions. The kidneys have to work harder to remove the waste products of protein metabolism.

2. Dehydration: Increased protein intake can lead to dehydration. This is because the kidneys need more water to eliminate the byproducts of protein metabolism.

3. Digestive Problems: Consuming too much protein can lead to digestive issues like constipation, bloating, and other discomforts, especially if your diet is low in fiber.

4. Nutrient Deficiencies: A diet high in protein can sometimes result in neglecting other food groups, potentially leading to deficiencies in important nutrients.

5. Heart Disease: High protein diets, especially those rich in red meat and full-fat dairy, can increase the risk of heart disease due to a higher intake of saturated fat and cholesterol.

6. Bone Health: Some studies suggest that overconsumption of protein, especially animal protein, could lead to calcium loss from bones, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. However, this topic is debated, with other research suggesting adequate protein is beneficial for bone health.

7. Liver Damage: People with liver disease are advised to limit their protein intake because overconsumption could worsen liver function.

While protein is an essential part of a balanced diet, it’s important to ensure it’s consumed in moderation and as part of a varied diet to ensure the intake of other essential nutrients.

As always, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional or a dietitian for personalized advice before making major changes to your diet.

What are the waste products of protein metabolism?

Protein metabolism involves a number of steps that lead to the production of several waste products. Here are a few of them:

1. Ammonia (NH3): This is a toxic substance produced when proteins are broken down. The body converts it into a less harmful substance called urea.

2. Urea: This is the primary waste product of protein metabolism and is excreted in the urine. The liver converts ammonia into urea as part of the urea cycle, which is then transported to the kidneys for excretion.

3. Creatinine: This is a waste product formed from the metabolism of creatine, a compound that provides energy to muscles.

4. Uric Acid: This is a waste product formed from the breakdown of nucleic acids (the building blocks of DNA). While not directly a product of protein metabolism, diets high in certain proteins can contribute to increased levels of uric acid.

5. Carbon Dioxide (CO2): This is produced during the process of energy production in cells, including during the metabolism of the carbon skeletons of amino acids.

These waste products, especially urea, and creatinine, are often measured in blood and urine tests to assess kidney function, as the kidney plays a key role in filtering and excreting these substances.

What are the carbon skeletons of amino acids?

Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, are composed of a central carbon atom (the alpha carbon) attached to an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), a hydrogen atom, and a side chain (R group) that varies for each specific amino acid.

When the amino group is removed from an amino acid in a process called deamination, the remaining structure — which includes the central carbon atom, the carboxyl group, and the unique side chain — is often referred to as the carbon skeleton, or sometimes the keto acid.

These carbon skeletons can be further metabolized in the body. Depending on their structure, they can enter into various metabolic pathways. Some can be converted into glucose through a process called gluconeogenesis. Others can be converted into ketone bodies or directly enter the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle or the TCA cycle) for energy production.

In summary, the carbon skeletons of amino acids refer to the remaining molecular structure after the amino group is removed, and they can be metabolized in various ways depending on the body’s needs.

What foods contribute to the citric acid cycle?

The citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle or the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, is a series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy. This cycle doesn’t directly involve food but rather certain molecules that can be derived from the macronutrients in our diet: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Here’s how different nutrients from food contribute to the cycle:

1. Carbohydrates: These are broken down into glucose during digestion. Glucose then undergoes a process known as glycolysis, resulting in a compound called pyruvate. Pyruvate enters the mitochondria (the energy-producing structures within cells), where it is further converted into Acetyl-CoA, a crucial molecule that enters the citric acid cycle.

2. Fats: Dietary fats are primarily composed of triglycerides, which are broken down into glycerol and fatty acids. Fatty acids are converted into molecules called acyl-CoA, which are then converted to Acetyl-CoA via a process called beta-oxidation. This Acetyl-CoA can then enter the citric acid cycle.

3. Proteins: Proteins are broken down into their individual amino acids. Some of these amino acids can be deaminated (removing the amino group) to form molecules that can be converted into Acetyl-CoA or other intermediates of the citric acid cycle.

In summary, a wide range of foods can contribute to the citric acid cycle indirectly, as the cycle uses Acetyl-CoA and other intermediates that are derived from the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the foods we eat. Foods rich in these nutrients include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, legumes, nuts, seeds, and oils.

Does the citric acid cycle have any effect on urine or blood ph?

The citric acid cycle itself does not directly affect blood or urine pH. This cycle primarily serves to generate energy for the cell by oxidizing Acetyl-CoA to produce ATP, carbon dioxide, and water. However, there are indirect ways that elements of metabolism linked to the citric acid cycle can impact blood and urine pH.

1. Respiration and Blood pH: One of the products of the citric acid cycle is carbon dioxide (CO2), which is expelled from cells, transported in the blood to the lungs, and exhaled. CO2 in the blood can combine with water to form carbonic acid, which can dissociate into bicarbonate and hydrogen ions. An increase in CO2 in the blood, therefore, can increase the acidity (lower the pH) of the blood. This is usually corrected by an increased breathing rate to expel more CO2, but in certain situations like respiratory disorders, it could lead to a state of acidosis.

2. Diet and Urine pH: While the citric acid cycle itself doesn’t directly influence urine pH, the types of foods you eat (which contribute different metabolites to pathways like the citric acid cycle) can influence urine pH. For example, a diet high in animal protein can lead to more acidic urine due to the generation of sulfurous waste products from protein metabolism. On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can lead to more alkaline urine due to the metabolites they contribute.

3. Metabolic Acidosis or Alkalosis: In certain pathologic conditions, metabolic acidosis (low blood pH due to increased production of acids or inadequate removal of acids by the kidneys) or metabolic alkalosis (high blood pH due to loss of acid from the body or increased bicarbonate levels) can occur. These conditions can involve metabolites that are part of or related to the citric acid cycle, but these are usually complex situations involving multiple physiological processes.

The body has multiple systems in place to tightly regulate blood pH, including the respiratory system, the renal system, and various buffer systems in the blood. Disturbances in pH can have significant effects on bodily function and require medical attention.

Hey Mike, are rice and beans combined a good source of protein?

Why yes they are. Combining rice and beans can provide a complete protein source. Proteins are made up of amino acids, some of which the body cannot make on its own. These are called essential amino acids, and they must be obtained from the diet.

Individual plant-based foods often lack one or more of these essential amino acids, but you can combine foods to get all of them. This is known as protein combining or complementary proteins. For example, grains like rice are low in the amino acid lysine but have enough of another amino acid, methionine. On the other hand, legumes like beans are low in methionine but have enough lysine.

When you eat rice and beans together, they can provide all of the essential amino acids in sufficient amounts, making the combination a complete protein source. This is particularly beneficial for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

However, it’s worth noting that you don’t need to eat complementary proteins at every single meal. As long as you’re consuming a variety of protein sources throughout the day, your body can assemble the amino acids into complete proteins.

Energy, Frequency, Vibration, and Electrolytes.

Electrolytes are substances that conduct electricity when dissolved in water. They are essential for the proper functioning of the body’s cells and organs. The principal electrolytes in the human body are sodium, potassium, and chloride. An imbalance of electrolytes can lead to a variety of problems, including:

Dehydration: An imbalance of electrolytes can disrupt the body’s fluid balance and cause dehydration. Electrolytes, especially sodium and potassium, help regulate fluid balance in the body. An imbalance can lead to dehydration, which can cause symptoms such as thirst, fatigue, and dizziness.
Heart problems: An imbalance of electrolytes, particularly potassium, can lead to abnormal heart rhythms and potentially life-threatening conditions such as heart attack or stroke. Low potassium levels (hypokalemia) can cause muscle weakness and an irregular heartbeat, while high potassium levels (hyperkalemia) can cause a slow or irregular heartbeat.
Muscle weakness and cramping: Electrolyte imbalances can affect the way muscles function, leading to weakness and cramping.
Nerve problems: An imbalance of electrolytes can affect the functioning of the nerves, leading to numerous symptoms. Particularly sodium, potassium, and calcium, are important for the proper functioning of nerves and muscles. An imbalance of these electrolytes can cause muscle spasms, cramps, weakness, and twitching.
Changes in blood pressure: Electrolyte imbalances can affect the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure, leading to high or low blood pressure.
Changes in mental status: Electrolyte imbalances can affect the brain and lead to symptoms such as confusion, lethargy, and seizures.
Acid-base balance: Electrolytes, particularly bicarbonate, help regulate the acid-base balance in the body. An imbalance can cause acidosis (too much acid in the body) or alkalosis (too little acid in the body), which can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, nausea, and confusion.

The acid-base balance in the body is regulated by a variety of mechanisms, including the respiratory system and the kidneys. A diet that supports these systems can help maintain proper acid-base balance in the body. Here are some general dietary recommendations for maintaining acid-base balance:

Eat a varied diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are rich in alkaline compounds that can help neutralize the acid in the body. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

Limit intake of acidic foods: Certain foods, such as processed meats, caffeine, and alcohol, can increase acid production in the body. Limiting the intake of these foods can help maintain acid-base balance.

Get enough protein(amino acids): The body uses amino acids to help buffer acid in the body by neutralizing excess acid. Getting enough protein in the diet can help maintain an acid-base balance.

When the body produces excess acid, it can lead to a condition called acidosis. The body has several mechanisms for maintaining acid-base balance, including the respiratory system and the kidneys. However, the body can also use protein to help neutralize excess acid.

Proteins are made up of amino acids, which can act as bases (substances that neutralize acid). When the body is in a state of acidosis, some of the amino acids in proteins can be converted into bases to neutralize excess acid. This process helps to maintain acid-base balance in the body.

It is important to maintain a balance of acid and base in the body, as an imbalance can lead to a variety of health problems. However, getting enough protein in the diet is also important to support various bodily functions, including maintaining acid-base balance.

Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is important for maintaining acid-base balance. Aim for 8-8 ounces of water per day.

Limit salt intake: A high-salt diet can disrupt acid-base balance and lead to dehydration. Aim for less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day.

It is important to note that everyone’s dietary needs are different, and it is always good to seek the advice of a professional for personalized dietary recommendations.

Further reading about acidosis.

Acidosis is a condition in which the body has excess acid. A variety of factors, including respiratory problems, kidney problems, and certain medications, can cause it. Acidosis can lead to a variety of problems, including:

Breathing difficulties: Acidosis can cause respiratory problems, leading to difficulty breathing.

Confusion and coma: Acidosis can affect the brain and lead to symptoms such as confusion and coma.

Fatigue: Acidosis can cause fatigue and weakness.

Headache: Acidosis can cause headaches and dizziness.

Nausea and vomiting: Acidosis can cause digestive problems such as nausea and vomiting.

Rapid breathing: Acidosis can cause rapid breathing, which can lead to further respiratory problems.

Rapid heart rate: Acidosis can cause a rapid heart rate, which can lead to further cardiovascular problems.

It is important to address acidosis as soon as possible to prevent complications and restore acid-base balance in the body.

What Is Terrain Theory?

Terrain Theory postulates that there is only one single disease: acidosis. This theory is based on the belief that all disease is caused by cellular malfunction due to an imbalance of acids and alkalis in the body. Terrain Theory provides a framework for understanding how different factors can lead to disease and how to maintain health through proper diet and lifestyle choices.

Terrain Theory is not only a theory of disease progression but also a way to avoid the progression of disease that detracts from the quality of life and longevity. Terrain Theory recognizes that many factors contribute to our overall health and lifespan and that we must take care of our bodies if we want to maintain good health. Terrain Theory provides a practical approach or framework to achieving and maintaining health through proper diet and hygienic and healthy lifestyle choices.

Terrain Theory is based on the work of Dr. Antoine Bechamp, a French scientist who lived in the 19th century. Bechamp’s work was largely ignored during his lifetime but began to blossom in the early 20th century and been growing steadily ever since. Terrain Theory is a growing movement, and many resources are available to help you learn more about it. Terrain Theory is an exciting and innovative approach to understanding health and disease, and I believe it has the potential to transform the way we think about healthcare while providing us with a reasonable pathway to a much more productive quality of life, even beyond 100 years of age.

What Is Acidosis?

Acidosis is a term used to describe the state of having too much acid in the body. Acidosis can be caused by various things, including diet, lifestyle choices, and certain medical conditions. When the body has too much acid, it leads to cellular dysfunction and an overall imbalance in the body. This can manifest in various ways, including fatigue, headaches, and even disease.

Acidosis is a major contributor to disease, and terrain theory posits that all disease is caused by acidosis. Therefore, the goal of terrain theory is to create a healthy terrain or balance in the body so that diseases can be avoided altogether. This is done through diet and lifestyle choices that help to alkalize the body.

Acidosis is a serious condition that should not be ignored. If you think you may be suffering from acidosis, now is the time to start making better decisions that will lead to better health and greater longevity. Terrain Theory offers a promising approach to treating disease, but even more importantly, how to avoid disease progression in the first place.

What Is The Cause of Acidosis?

There is no single cause of acidosis. Rather, it results from a combination of things, including diet, lifestyle choices, and certain medical conditions. When the body has too much acid, it leads to cellular dysfunction and an overall imbalance in the body. This can manifest in various ways, including fatigue, headaches, and even advanced levels of metabolic disease, up to and including cancer.

Author – Michael J. Loomis – Founder of Chew Digest