Final answer:
Eating additional protein calories above daily requirements can lead to excess calories being stored as body fat, potentially resulting in weight gain and obesity if the surplus is consistent. High protein intake may also have other health implications such as increased kidney workload and potential bone loss.
Step-by-step explanation:
An intake of additional protein calories above an average individual's daily requirement can lead to various outcomes. If the additional protein calories are not needed for bodily functions such as tissue repair, growth, or immune defense, they will be utilized for energy. When the body's energy needs are met, the surplus calories from protein — as with any other macronutrients like carbohydrates or lipids — are converted into body fat and stored. Over time, a consistent caloric surplus from excessive protein intake can contribute to weight gain and potentially obesity. This is particularly relevant in the context of overnutrition, which is a growing health problem characterized by excessive energy intake and insufficient physical activity.
It is also important to note that in some cases, high protein intake could lead to other health issues such as increased load on the kidneys and potential bone loss due to calcium leaching, although these effects are not universally agreed upon and may depend on individual health status and dietary balance.