A low protein diet is a diet containing reduced or restricted amounts of protein. Though numerous reasons may lead you to follow the diet, protein restriction is often critically important for people with kidney disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Since a low protein diet can pose numerous challenges, seek specified guidance from your doctor or dietitian. Fortunately, you can enjoy a variety of healthy, satisfying foods while limiting your protein intake.
Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetables and fruits are naturally low in protein, yet rich in other vital nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, disease-fighting antioxidants, water and dietary fiber. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in nutrients include berries, apples, peaches, nectarines, plums, spinach, kale, tomatoes, red and green bell peppers, cauliflower, broccoli, squash and string beans. If your doctor has also suggested reduced potassium intake, the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse suggests limiting potassium-rich items, such as avocados, kiwi, bananas, melons and dried fruit. Consume a variety of fruits and vegetables regularly for broadest dietary benefits.
Starches
Starches, such as breads, pasta, rice and potatoes, provide significant amounts of glucose---the body's primary energy source. Whole grain starches and starchy vegetables also provide rich amounts of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Whole grains and starchy vegetables are also low-glycemic, meaning they have a mild impact on blood sugar levels. Most starches are naturally low in protein content. Though most adults require roughly 45 to 65 percent of their calories in the form of carbohydrates, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, your needs may increase during a low protein diet as you replace protein-rich foods with starches. Examples of nutrient-rich, low protein starches include whole grain hot and cold cereals, whole grain breads and pasta, brown rice, wild rice, squash, sweet potatoes and baked potatoes.
High-Quality Protein
Though low-protein diets limit protein intake, they do not omit protein entirely. Your body requires protein for lean tissue development, tissue repair and strength for recovery. If you have kidney or liver disease, the Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse suggests high-quality protein-rich foods in appropriate amounts daily, since they produce less waste than low-quality protein sources. Examples of high-quality protein-rich foods include lean meats, poultry, fish and egg whites. Be sure to follow your doctor's guidance regarding sufficient daily protein amounts. To keep protein-rich food portions modest, make sandwiches using thin slices of meat or poultry and serve increased amounts of rice, pasta or vegetables onto your lunch and dinner plates and reduced-size portions of chicken, steak or fish.
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