The kidneys play an important role in the breakdown of protein. If you have kidney disease, they cannot perform this function as effectively. A diet to address renal problems covers several aspects, including watching protein intake. Differences exist however, between the structure of vegetable proteins and animal proteins, meaning you might not have to limit vegetable proteins as carefully.
Protein and the Kidneys
When the kidneys break down protein, the process creates a waste product that normally leaves the body through the urine. If you have kidney disease, this waste can build up, leading to complications. Regardless of protein type, this can occur, so you need to monitor intake of both vegetable and animal proteins. Vegetable proteins however, do not tax the kidneys as much as animal proteins.
Vegetable Proteins
Examples of vegetable proteins include soy foods and drinks, beans, nuts and nut butters, seeds, and wheat gluten. Registered dietitian Joan Brookshyer, writing for the American Association of Kidney Patients, notes that soy protein in particular might reduce complications of kidney disease. She recommends eating at least one serving of soy each day.
Importance of Variety
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and your body cannot produce all of them on its own and can only get some from the diet. Most plant proteins do not contain all of these essential amino acids and if vegetable proteins comprise a majority of your protein intake, you must eat a variety to ensure you consume all of the necessary amino acids. A dietitian can help you design an eating plan that takes this into account.
Recommended Daily Intake
Brookshyer explains that you should generally limit total protein intake to .8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. You should consult with a doctor or registered dietitian for your personal protein goals; your situation might call for more or less.
Considerations
If you have kidney disease, you must also watch your intake of sodium and phosphorus. Many vegetarian protein foods might contain high amounts. Examples include processed "fake meat" type soy products, soy sauce and certain types of nuts.
The American Kidney Association explains that animal proteins represent the highest quality protein and your body most easily assimilates these types of protein. You should not completely eliminate animal proteins from your diet but instead work with a health care professional to determine a recommended daily amount.
