Do you know how much protein you should have in your chronic kidney disease (CKD) diet? Protein is an essential nutrient for your kidneys and overall health, but how much to consume is a common question for healthcare providers. In the National Kidney Foundation’s Kidney Commute podcast, kidney care experts discuss the role of protein in CKD diets, including why protein recommendations change.* 

https://kidneycommute.podbean.com/e/protein-in-the-diet-of-ckd-patients/

What is protein?

Protein is one of three macronutrients (the other two being fat and carbohydrates) that provide us with calories and energy to live. It is found in every cell of our body and plays an important role in: 

• Transporting molecules to different parts of the body
• Helping to repair cells and make new ones
• Protecting the body from dangerous viruses and bacteria
• Promoting the growth and development of children and pregnant women 

Why do protein guidelines change during CKD?

Your healthcare provider can make protein recommendations based on your overall health and your stage of CKD. For CKD patients in the earlier stages, your healthcare team may not suggest restricting protein at all. 

As CKD progresses to stage 3 or 4, you will likely be encouraged to restrict protein intake. Melissa Becks, a kidney dietitian, says that too much protein can cause high blood pressure within the kidney. This negatively affects the kidneys’ ability to filter blood, which can worsen kidney disease. 

On the other hand, patients on dialysis often need more protein in their diet. According to Becks, dialysis treatments directly affect protein needs. She says, “[…] the (dialysis) process tends to break down a lot of the protein in the blood.”

Where can I find protein?

Many people think of beef, chicken, and other animal-based foods as the only sources of protein, but protein can be found in a variety of foods. 

“Most of the protein we eat comes from meat like fish or poultry, but you’ll find smaller amounts of protein in things like grains and vegetables,” said Melanie Becks, a kidney dietitian. “Plant proteins are easier on the kidneys because they tend to create less acid during metabolism.”

How can I overcome roadblocks with diet?  

There are a variety of teaching techniques for different learning styles. Your healthcare provider should work with you to make sure you fully understand the nutrition information.

“When I was on dialysis I was given sample examples of foods that were high in protein. I was given charts and shown what a proper serving of protein would look like,” said Dwayne Clayton, a peritoneal dialysis patient. “I learned to read labels, and I was shown my labs so I could have a better understanding of what a healthy range is.”

Understanding nutrition guidelines can be challenging enough; changing your eating habits, and following the guidelines can be even tougher. Small changes in your diet, like adding in an extra vegetable or cutting back your serving size of ice cream, can have a slow but long-term positive impact on your health.  

*Kidney Commute CE Study Guide: Protein and Kidney Disease. (2023, January 20). National Kidney Foundation. https://www.kidney.org/newsletter/kidney-commute-ce-study-guide-protein-and-kidney-disease