While most people don't have to think twice when they bite into a steak, this is not necessarily true for the one in nine Americans the National Kidney Foundation says has kidney disease. For some of these people, dietary protein does have an effect on their kidneys. Determining whether they should eat less protein is an important consideration when outlining a treatment plan with their doctor.
Healthy Kidneys
Healthy kidneys filter over 200 gallons of blood every day. During the filtration process, the glomeruli, or kidney filters prevent proteins in the blood from passing through the glomeruli into the urine.
If you have healthy kidneys, you don't have to worry whether eating protein will affect your kidneys. Most people eat far more protein than they actually need with no adverse affect.
Urine Protein
Kidney disease often remains undetected for months and years. Patients do not realize they have a problem until a urinalysis is done during a regular physical or an insurance exam. Diseased kidneys do not prevent proteins from spilling into the urine, which causes high urine protein.
In addition to the underlying disease, high urine protein further damages the glomeruli and accelerates the progression of kidney disease. Therefore, a high protein diet negatively affects kidney patients.
Protein Restriction
Managing urine protein levels is an important aspect of treating kidney disease. Some doctors recommend that patients limit the amount of protein they eat. Typically, patients are asked to limit their daily protein intake to one 4-oz. serving of a high-protein food. The rationale is that urine protein can be minimized by limiting dietary protein.
Considerations
If you suspect you have high urine protein, you should never change your diet without consulting a kidney specialist called a nephrologist. Protein restriction is never recommended for children or patients with end stage disease. By working with a nephrologist or renal dietitian, you can follow a diet that will best prolong the life of your kidneys and promote your well being.
Member Comments