Excessive protein is defined as greater than 35 percent of total calories you eat, or more than 175 grams of protein for a 2,000-calorie diet. The acceptable macronutrient distribution range (AMDR) is defined as the range that’s associated with reducing the risk for chronic disease while fulfilling the body’s needs of nutrients. The current AMDR according to the Institute of Medicine recommends the following:
Protein intake: 10 to 35 percent of total calories
Carbohydrate intake: 45 to 65 percent of total calories
Fat intake: 20 to 35 percent of total calories
Excessive consumption of macronutrients outside the ADMR may lead to increased risk for chronic disease and insufficient intakes of essential nutrients.
There are exceptions to the AMDR for carbohydrate and fat macronutrients, but not for protein. Diet exceptions include the ketogenic diet, where fat makes up the majority of the diet, or in plant-based diets, where carbohydrates may make up more than 65 percent of the diet. Either of these diets can result in health benefits.
Protein intake exceeding the AMDR or 35 percent of calories doesn’t show these same benefits, and can lead to protein poisoning.