A low protein diet is essential for people who have been diagnosed with kidney disease. Together with salt, fluids, potassium, and phosphorus, protein is a nutrient that should be taken in with caution. There are restrictions to these 5 nutrients since an excess of any of which can further damage the kidney. Too much protein can build up urea (which the kidneys excrete) in the bloodstream, which will result to fatigue and loss of appetite. To aid your kidneys and reduce their workload, opt for a low protein diet.

A proper and religiously followed kidney disease diet guide can naturally and greatly helps in the overall treatment of the disease. Kidney disease occurs when the kidney is unable to perform its function of filtering the blood from excess wastes and fluids. As a result, there is too much minerals, vitamins, and fluids in the body at a level that is not tolerable anymore.

In a low protein diet for people with kidney disease, there is a need to reduce or to decrease the intake of protein. What can you do? Take low protein food. Normally, each person needs 40 – 60 grams of protein per day to maintain stable and good health. The foods considered high in protein are animal products, specifically meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. On the other hand, foods considered low in protein are vegetable products such as rice, pasta, breads, cereals, and dried beans. Here are some tips on how you can make your low protein food just as satisfying:

1. Opt for lower protein soups. Try the milk substitutes for cream soups so that the soups can be filling even with less protein.
2. Make vegetables and grains your main dish, instead of making meat the highlight of your meal. Turn their roles around so you can see how you can change the proportion and servings.
3. Serve little pieces of meat and increase your vegetables. Use thinly sliced meats in sandwiches or use smaller meat cuts in kebabs or fried rice.
4. Serve cheeses like parmesan, sharp cheddar, or romano in smaller quantities to make your meal flavorful.
5. In salads, opt for fresh vegetables like cucumber and lettuce instead of loading up on bacon and egg.

Finally, to make your low protein diet for kidney disease more effective, increase calories to maintain a healthy weight. You can use this by taking in more healthy fats like vegetable oils (such as corn) and olive oil, or even canned fruits.