'I felt that I had difficulty gaining muscle': the attempt to change the body that ended in kidney failure
Ex-athlete Tiago Guzoni's attempt to gain muscle through a high-protein diet led to severe health complications, including kidney failure.
Tiago Guzoni, a 30-year-old former athlete, faced significant challenges in his journey to gain muscle mass. Opting for a high-protein diet instead of anabolic steroids, he believed that increasing his protein intake would help him achieve his fitness goals. This diet involved consuming large amounts of protein-rich foods and supplements to meet his daily nutritional targets. Despite his good intentions, this approach ultimately became detrimental to his health.
For over two years, Tiago meticulously organized his meals to include high-protein foods like chicken, beef, and fish, often resorting to calorie-dense shakes to meet his daily requirements. He maintained an intense workout regimen, convinced that the combination of heavy lifting and a protein-rich diet was key to transforming his physique. However, his body began to show signs of distress, starting with severe headaches during workouts that he initially attributed to migraines.
When the headaches worsened and began impacting his daily life, Tiago finally sought medical attention. Subsequent medical evaluations revealed alarming health issues, including kidney failure, stemming from his extreme dietary choices. Tiago's experience underscores the importance of balanced nutrition and the dangers of unregulated dietary practices, particularly for those seeking to enhance their physical appearance through drastic means.