A High-fiber, Low-protein Diet

Physicians often recommend restricted diets to reduce or alleviate the symptoms of certain health problems. High-fiber, low-protein diets may help with intestinal problems, liver and kidney diseases, and gout. Due to associated health risks, a low-protein diet should be followed only under the advice and supervision of a medical professional. Consult a physician before beginning any new diet plan, and seek medical advice before self-diagnosing or self-treating any illness or disorder.

Benefits of Low Protein

A physician may prescribe a low-protein diet for patients with certain diseases of the kidneys or liver. When these organs are compromised, they are unable to properly process proteins. This can lead to excessive waste buildup that the body cannot eliminate. High protein consumption, particularly animal proteins such as meat and seafood, can also contribute to gout. Following a low-protein diet can reduce the amount of uric acid in the body, which may help prevent gout flare-ups.

Risks of Low Protein

Proteins contain essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. The body requires protein for many functions such as carrying oxygen, producing antibodies and regulating hormones. Inadequate protein can eventually cause problems of the immune system and other systems dependent upon amino acids. Protein-deficient diets are often associated with insufficient nutrients contained in protein-rich foods such as niacin, B12, iron and calcium. According to the Department of Agriculture, low protein is also associated with the risk of sarcopenia, loss of muscle mass, in older adults.

Sources of Protein

When following a low-protein diet, you should reduce but not eliminate sources of protein. A physician can recommend the amount of protein you should consume each day based on your age, weight and health needs. Foods such as red meat and eggs are highest in protein but offer complete amino acids. Other foods high in protein include fish, poultry, dairy products and peanut butter. The foods lowest in protein include most vegetables and starches.

Benefits of High Fiber

Dietary fiber can relieve constipation and may reduce the risk of several diseases including diabetes, diverticular disease and cardiac disease. Insoluble fiber, found in grains and certain vegetables, can help relieve constipation and reduce the risk of hemorrhoids by increasing stool bulk. Soluble fiber, found in oats, legumes and certain fruits, may reduce cholesterol and glucose levels. People following high-fiber diets should drink plenty of water to keep stool soft. Aim for about 64 ounces of water per day.

Sources of Fiber

MayoClinic.com recommends at least 25 g of fiber per day for women and 38 g for men. Your physician may recommend higher amounts. Food sources of fiber include fruits such as raspberries, pears and apples; whole-wheat grains; barley; bran; legumes such as peas, lentils and beans; nuts; seeds; and vegetables such as artichoke, peas and broccoli. Keep in mind that legumes, nuts and seeds are often high in plant proteins, so they may count significantly toward your daily protein consumption.