Protein of some form is usually seen as the center piece of a healthy diet. However, when an individual is diagnosed with liver or kidney disease, it is often recommended by physicians that they start a low-protein diet.
When bacteria in the intestines break down protein, ammonia is created. The ammonia travels to the liver, where it is converted into urea. However, a damaged liver cannot process protein well. Ammonia levels builds in the bloodstream causing symptoms such as jaundice, portal hypertension, blood and hormonal abnormalities in addition to generalized fatigue and poor appetite.
And if there is impaired renal function, urea does not leave the body properly through the kidneys. It also lingers in the bloodstream. Complications from kidney disease can lead individuals to permanent dialysis or death, if they do not receive a transplant.
A low protein diet is crucial for both conditions in order to reduce stress on the organs.
What to Look for
The first step to following a low-protein diet is to reduce intake of all animal products from your diet extremely. Abstain from large portions of not only red meat, but also, dairy, eggs, fish and poultry.
Vegetables and processed carbohydrates also have low levels of protein. You must check the labels on your bread, cereals and pastas to determine the amount you are consuming.
Fortunately, there are companies such as Dietary Specialties, Med-Diet and Ener-G Foods that produce low protein breads, pastas, baking mixes, cheeses, milk and egg substitutes, pizzas, cookies, cakes and crackers specifically designed for those suffering from kidney or liver disease.
Fruits, fats and sugars possess only trace amounts of protein and are allowed to a certain extent. Salt intake must be monitored because it can lead to detrimental fluid retention.
To a degree, a reduction in protein consumption can be beneficial to many in the Western world. By eating consistently high protein diets, we can overburden our kidneys leading to a decrease in their functionality and long term bone loss.
A low-protein diet may also affect longevity. In fact, a 2005 study by University College London discovered that a low-fat, low-protein, calorie restricted diet have a positive effect of the lifespan of fruit flies when compared to a low sugar, calorie restricted diet.
Common Pitfalls
A very low-protein diet may be nutrient deficient in some regards. It must be medically supervised and should not be undertaken as a means to lose weight.
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