High Protein Diet & Chronic Renal Failure

The kidneys have five major responsibilities. They work with the endocrine system to regulate blood pressure, filter waste products out of the circulatory system, produce urine, maintain normal fluid levels and control the levels of minerals in the blood. Eating a diet high in protein puts stress on the kidneys and could have serious consequences for someone with chronic renal failure.

Proteinuria

When the kidneys filter blood, they eliminate waste products and retain useful substances such as proteins and minerals. People with chronic renal failure have damaged filtering units -- called nephrons -- in their kidneys, so protein molecules leak into the urine. Medical professionals refer to the presence of protein in the urine as proteinuria. Since protein helps regulate the amount of fluid in the circulatory system, proteinuria leads to swelling of the face, abdomen and extremities. This condition also gives urine a foamy appearance. If you develop proteinuria, your doctor may recommend discontinuing a high-protein diet in favor of a low-protein diet designed specifically for someone with kidney disease.

Metabolic Waste

The muscles use protein as a source of energy. When muscle tissue contracts, it breaks down proteins and creates a waste product called creatinine. Those with damaged kidneys experience increased levels of this waste in the bloodstream. Since eating high amounts of protein results in increased creatinine production, a high-protein diet leads to higher creatinine levels in the blood. High creatinine levels cause fatigue, itching, nausea, loss of appetite and vomiting.

Disease Progression

One of the major goals for someone following a renal diet is the preservation of remaining kidney function. This means eating foods that will not make the kidneys work harder. Because eating a diet high in protein adds stress to the kidneys, failing to reduce protein intake increases the risk for additional loss of kidney function.

Dialysis Diet

Although some people with chronic renal failure need to restrict their protein intake, those undergoing peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis need to eat more protein than usual. Both of these procedures filter wastes and minerals from the blood, but each uses a different method.

Peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis cause protein loss, so people receiving dialysis treatment need to increase their intake of high-quality protein sources. Eat chicken, fish, eggs and legumes instead of ground beef, organ meats and fatty cuts of beef. Eating more protein helps those receiving dialysis avoid loss of muscle mass and maintain higher levels of energy.

Warning

Age, gender, weight and disease status all play a role in how much protein you should eat. Before making significant dietary changes, consult a renal dietitian. These dietitians undergo extensive training to learn about the nutritional requirements of people with kidney disease and renal failure. A renal dietitian will educate you about your dietary needs and offer suggestions for meals and snacks that will not further compromise your kidneys.