Hi Doctor, I Have Started Hitting Gym Since 3 Months

Posted on Sat, 8 Jun 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 8 Jun 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : Hi Doctor, I have started hitting gym since 3 months to build muscle and stay fit. I have been recommended by my trainer to consider whey protein (Optimum Nutrition Golds Whey Protein). I'm scared that would have negative effect on my kidneys. I cannot rely on natural source of protein like eggs due to my hectic professional life. That's when I thought of taking doctors opinion for my confusion.

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Arnab (0 minute later)

Hi Doctor, I have started hitting gym since 3 months to build muscle and stay fit. I have been recommended by my trainer to consider whey protein (Optimum Nutrition Golds Whey Protein). I'm scared that would have negative effect on my kidneys. I cannot rely on natural source of protein like eggs due to my hectic professional life. That's when I thought of taking doctors opinion for my confusion.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Arnab (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Negative effects can only happen if you're already having compromised kidney function...

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX
Welcome back to 'Ask A Doctor' service...

Well, it's important to note that the negative effects can only happen if you're already having compromised kidney function... So, it's advisable to check your kidney function (CBC and KFT with a routine Urine analysis and eGFR levels) once...

If the results are found within normal limits then you can safely start the Whey protein as per your gym-trainer...nothing to worry in that case...

Just make sure to drink plenty of water (at least 2.5-3Ltr per day) throughout the day...

Take Care
Kind Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Answered by Dr. Dr.Arnab (0 minute later)

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Arnab (5 minutes later)

Thank you, XXXXXXX I am a little hesitant that my gym trainer might recommend a whey protein that brings more commission to him. So, is there any whey protein which you would recommend me to start with? I would trust doctors over gym trainers.

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Arnab (0 minute later)

Answered by Dr. Dr.Arnab (15 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Follow-up consultation...

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back,

Well, personally, in an otherwise healthy adult, I wouldn't recommend any Whey-proteins at all!! These are basically nutritional supplements which are only helpful as an additional dietary source...In reality, only a well balanced and modified high protein diet is the one always better than this...

However, the Optima Nutrition Gold is a pretty well-renowned one, so it can be taken as per the trainer's suggestion (as they're the one who'll be monitoring you day in and day out)...

However, if you're open to a long-term, conservative and modified approach, you can always go for a pre and post-workout mash...the base should always be made up of boiled chickpeas or black grams or moong sprouts/ripe-banana/tofu, mixed with some paprika, cinnamon, a dash of black pepper, pinch of salt, lime juice with some fresh olives, pistachios, peanuts, tomatoes topped with 3-4 boiled egg whites/chicken breasts tossed in a bit of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar...

Along with it, make sure to drink plenty of water (at least 2.5-3Ltr per day) throughout the day...

Take Care
Kind Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Answered by Dr. Dr.Arnab (0 minute later)