The kidneys are a pair of sophisticated organs located near the middle of your back. They are responsible for filtering blood to remove waste products and extra water which becomes urine. If the kidneys become damaged or are otherwise unable to properly function, kidney, or renal, failure may occur. If the kidneys fail to work properly, you may need to modify your diet and avoid foods known to be high in protein.
Function
Filtering waste is the primary function of the kidneys. However, they also regulate electrolytes like sodium and potassium to regulate fluid balance within the body. According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, the kidneys also release hormones which are involved in developing red blood cells, controlling blood pressure and helps maintain calcium levels in the bones.
Identification
Several factors can contribute to renal failure. One of the most common causes is diabetes. High blood sugar levels in the blood can damage the kidneys, leading to failure. High blood pressure is also a common cause of renal failure. The small blood vessels with the kidneys are damaged when blood pressure continually exceeds 130/90, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Other less common causes include congenital problems, auto immune diseases, poisoning and trauma.
Significance
Protein is a crucial building blocks to cell development. As your body digests the protein you eat, waste products are created and are filtered through the kidneys and are excreted in your urine. When kidneys are damaged, the small filtering vessels are not able to properly filter protein and it builds up in your blood. The American Diabetes Association states that when this build up is caught early intervention can take place. When it is caught late, further kidney damage may result. When the protein is found in the blood early, modifying the amount of protein eaten can help to control the protein levels in the blood.
Considerations
Before kidneys reach the point of total failure, a dietitian can evaluate your diet and discuss changes which can delay the need for dialysis. Protein is a necessary component to any diet but the dietitian will recommend a diet with the lowest possible amount of protein to maintain your body's needs yet not stress the kidneys. By controlling your intake of foods like eggs, milk, meats and nuts, your kidneys will not have to work as hard and you can prolong their ability to function.
Recommendation
If you have been diagnosed with end stage renal disease, or renal failure which is irreversible, you will be started on a dialysis program. Once dialysis is underway, your protein needs will change. Your dietitian will explain that your need for protein will now significantly increase due to the amount of protein lost during the dialysis filtering process. Each patient requires a different amount of protein so it is imperative that you speak with your dietitian about your individual circumstance.
