When you go overboard on protein, this is what can happen in your body

(CNN) — There’s one buzz word that you might be hearing a lot lately: protein.

Whether it’s Starbucks testing a protein-packed cold foam or reality TV star Khloé Kardashian launching her own brand of protein popcorn, the macronutrient is having a cultural moment – and rightfully so. Protein is an important part of a healthy diet.

Along with carbohydrates and fat, protein is one of the main macronutrients that make up our diet. It’s also the only macronutrient that supplies us with amino acids.

When our bodies digest protein in food, it gets broken down into amino acids , which have a hand in many bodily processes , such as building and preserving muscle, making hormones, boosting the immune system and even maintaining healthy hair, skin and nails.

But some nutrition scientists w