Protein powders can be found everywhere from big discount stores to your local gym and health spas. Favored by athletes trying to build muscle, these products cause no problems in healthy people if taken according to package directions. However, using protein powder can silently accelerate the downward progression of pre-existing kidney problems.
Kidney Disease
One in nine Americans struggles with kidney disease as of 2011. Symptoms can develop so slowly and subtly, the problem often remains undiagnosed until the patient is near end-stage disease unless it is picked up in a routine physical or life insurance exam. High urine protein, also called proteinuria, is a red flag that something is amiss. A diagnostic workup, including blood work, ultrasound and biopsy, may be necessary to determine what type of kidney disease is causing the problem. Let your doctor know if you are taking protein powder.
Proteinuria
Independent from any other factor, proteinuria can accelerate the progression of kidney disease. The fragile filters in the kidneys known as glomeruli are easily destroyed when proteins pass from the blood into the urine. If urine protein levels remain uncontrollable, eventually so many glomeruli become scarred that kidney function declines.
Limiting the intake of dietary protein is one way to minimize high urine protein. Low-protein diets are often recommended. Taking protein powders is inconsistent with a low-protein diet.
Warning
Low-protein diets are not appropriate for all kidney patients. If you are on hemodialysis, you will probably be advised to increase your protein intake because dialysis removes specific amino acids from the blood. High urine protein is not an issue for dialysis patients because their kidneys are no longer functional. Protein powders may be useful under these circumstances. Double check with your nephrologist first because the powders may be high in potassium, phosphorus or other ingredients that are not healthy if you are on dialysis.
Suggestion
Have your family doctor rule out kidney disease before taking protein powder. A quick urine test is all that is necessary to determine if protein is present in the urine. You will have peace of mind taking protein powder, knowing that you are not taxing your kidneys. If urine protein is found, you and your nephrologist can start developing strategies to extend the life of your kidneys.
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Proteinuria
- National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Eat Right to Feel Right on Hemodialysis
- National Kidney Foundation: Kidney Disease
- National Kidney Foundation: KDOQI Clinical Practice Guidelines for Cardiovascular Disease in Dialysis Patients
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