When protein intake exceeds the body's absorption capacity, what happens to the excess?

When protein intake exceeds the body's absorption capacity, the excess protein undergoes a series of metabolic processes. After digestion and absorption, proteins are broken down into amino acids, which are utilized for various bodily functions including muscle repair, enzyme production, and other metabolic processes. However, when intake surpasses what the body can effectively utilize, the surplus amino acids cannot be stored in their amino acid form.

Instead, these excess amino acids undergo deamination, where the amino group is removed, resulting in the formation of ammonia and a carbon skeleton. The ammonia is then converted into urea and excreted through urine. The remaining carbon skeleton can be transformed into glucose or fatty acids, depending on the body's energy demands and overall nutritional status.

In cases where energy needs are met, and excess calories are present, the carbon skeleton components can be converted to fat. This conversion process is part of the body's method to store energy efficiently. Therefore, the excess protein not required for immediate use can ultimately lead to an increase in body fat if the caloric surplus is consistent over time. Thus, the process by which excess protein is converted to fat is accurate in explaining how the body handles surplus protein intake.