This Bodybuilder's Untimely Death Shows The Dangers of Eating Too Much Protein
What happens when an intense health regimen ends in tragedy?
Meegen Hefford, Australian bodybuilder and mother of two, passed away in June 2017 at age 25. She had an undiagnosed disease called urea cycle disorder. This rare condition, combined with the large amount of protein she had consumed in preparation for a bodybuilding competition, were to blame.
Her death certificate lists protein supplements along with the disease as the primary cause of her death, PerthNow reports. Urea cycle disorder prevents the body from breaking down protein, causing ammonia to build up in the bloodstream.
In the days leading up to her death, Hefford had told her mother that she was feeling "weird." Her mother had urged her to take it easy with the gym. She was later found unconscious in her apartment. It was not until she was taken to the hospital that doctors discovered her urea cycle disorder. She was pronounced brain dead a day later.
To prevent similar tragedies, her family is calling for stricter regulations on the supplement industry. But even in death, Hefford has breathed life back to at least four others with her donated organs. She is survived by her two children, aged 5 and 7.
For those who may not suffer from the same condition, it's still so important to listen to your body and realize when you're pushing yourself too hard. Being healthy is important, but all of us should take precautions when it comes to intense workouts and diet supplements.
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