Protein Intake and the Kidneys

Dr Asis Mitra explains the need to moderate protein intake for healthy kidneys

- Dr Asis Mitra

Importance of proteins for the kidneys

Protein is an important component of every cell in the body. It is an important building block for bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, hormones, enzymes, antibodies and blood. The primary role of dietary protein is for growth, development, tissue repair and maintenance. Proteins are complex organic molecules, which consist of amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of the body tissues. The body needs proteins to help build muscles, repair tissues and fight infections.

Low protein effect

If the kidneys are not working well, the urea can build up in the bloodstream and may cause fatigue and loss of appetite. Low protein intake would reduce the workload on the kidneys so that the remaining healthy part of the kidneys does not have to work so hard. Limiting the intake of animal-based protein (meat, fish, eggs, and milk-based products) and including more plant-based protein (beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, whole grains) in the diet may help slow down the loss of kidney function.