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A low-protein diet is used in people with abnormal kidney function to prevent worsening of their kidney disease . The diet is often low in sodium and potassium as well. For some people on this diet, fluid restriction is also necessary. And if you have diabetes along with kidney disease, a low-carbohydrate diet may be necessary.
This special diet is very helpful because it decreases the stress on the kidney.
The controlled amounts of each of these nutrients are based on the blood levels of potassium, sodium, protein (measured as total protein and albumin), and urea (a waste product normally excreted in the urine).
Fluid is only restricted if you accumulate excessive amounts in your body.
Calcium and phosphorus, two other important minerals in the body, are also followed closely. Phosphorous can become too high if you have kidney disease. Calcium can become too low. If the blood levels of these two minerals indicate that you need to adjust your intake of them, then the amounts allowed in your diet are altered. If that alone is not enough, supplements and medications are used.
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