If you have chronic kidney disease, chances are you are already following a renal diet that is specially designed for your needs. A renal diet restricts several ingredients, including protein, to decrease the workload of the kidneys. This can help them stay functional for a longer period of time, delaying their eventual decline.
Restricting Protein
When you have kidney failure, your kidneys do not function optimally and are not as efficient at separating waste from other nutrients in the blood. As a result, protein may spill into the urine. In addition, when protein breaks down, it forms a by-product called urea, which is a type of waste. When the kidneys cannot get rid of this waste efficiently, urea builds up in the blood, causing other health complications. Limiting the amount of protein in your diet can help prevent this excess buildup. It may also slow the progression of your kidney disease.
Early Kidney Failure
During early kidney failure, lifestyle changes, such as diet and managing other related conditions including blood pressure, are important. They can help keep you in good health, delaying the need for other more invasive treatments. According to Medline Plus, those in the pre-dialysis stage, or the earlier stage of kidney failure, often need to reduce the amount of protein in their diets. If you are limiting your protein intake, keep in mind that protein is not only found from animal sources; it may also come from other sources such as vegetables. Be sure to include all potential sources of protein when you tally your daily intake to prevent consuming excess amounts.
Determining the Amount of Protein
Your recommended amount of protein varies based on your weight and degree of kidney disease. According to Medline Plus, a general guideline for protein in a renal diet is about 1 gram of protein per kg of body weight. Per their calculations, a 140 pound person would restrict her protein to around 63 g per day, or just over 2 oz.. However, the American Association of Kidney Patients guidelines would allow the same person to have almost twice as much: 4 oz. per day. A doctor or dietitian can guide you in the right direction.
Sample Foods
High quality proteins, such as meats, fish and eggs, are best for people on restricted protein intake. To monitor your intake, learn to determine a serving size. For instance, a single egg is about 1 oz. of protein. An ounce is matchbox-sized, while 3 oz. is about the size of a deck of cards. Try distributing your protein intake throughout the day rather than concentrating it in one meal. For instance, a sample breakfast might include an egg, some fruit and a slice of whole grain toast. Lunch may consist of a salad with 1 oz. of shredded chicken. For dinner, you could have a small serving of chicken along with assorted fresh vegetables. With a little creativity, you can stretch your protein intake over the whole day and still enjoy tasty meals.
References
- American Association of Kidney Patients; The Importance of Following a Renal Friendly Diet; March 2006
- Medline Plus; Diet -- Chronic Kidney Disease; Nov. 5, 2009
- National Kidney Foundation: Nutrition and Chronic Kidney Disease
- National Kidney and Urologic Disease Information Clearinghouse; The Kidneys and How They Work; Feb. 2009
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