What is a consequence of consuming too much protein and insufficient carbs?

When the body consumes an excessive amount of protein while not getting enough carbohydrates, it undergoes a metabolic process called deamination. This process involves the removal of an amino group from the excess protein. The resulting carbon skeleton can then be utilized for energy production, similar to how carbohydrates would be used when they are adequately available.

Insufficient carbohydrate intake means that the body may not have enough glucose readily available for its energy needs. As a result, it shifts to using protein as an energy source through this deamination process. This underscores the importance of a balanced diet; while protein is essential for growth and repair in the body, carbohydrates are critical for providing the energy required for daily activities and bodily functions.

The other choices relate to different aspects of protein utilization or function, but they do not adequately address the situation of excess protein and insufficient carbohydrates. Thus, the primary consequence in this scenario is the conversion of protein for energy through deamination.