Which of the following is a potential consequence of excessively consuming a high-protein diet?

Excessively consuming a high-protein diet can lead to a higher risk of dehydration due to several factors. Protein metabolism requires water for the breakdown of proteins into amino acids and for the removal of nitrogen waste products generated during this process. When protein intake is significantly elevated, the body may require additional water to safely process and eliminate these waste products. If individuals do not increase their fluid intake accordingly, they may become dehydrated.

In contrast, increased energy levels, enhanced muscle recovery, and improved cardiovascular health are not directly associated with high-protein diets in a negative context. While moderate protein consumption can support muscle recovery and may contribute to energy levels, excessive intake does not guarantee these benefits and can instead lead to drawbacks like dehydration, as mentioned. Moreover, while some studies suggest that certain types of protein may have cardiovascular benefits, a diet excessively high in protein, particularly from animal sources, can be linked to other health risks such as increased saturated fat intake, which may negatively impact cardiovascular health.