How A Low Protein Diet Can Improve Kidney Function.

Low-protein diets have been shown to improve kidney function in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is a condition in which there is a gradual loss of kidney function, usually for more than 3 months. As a result, the kidneys' ability to remove waste gets lees and less and this can lead to waste products and toxins and other harmful substances building up in the body. 

One of the ways that low-protein diets can help improve kidney function is by reducing the workload on the kidneys. High protein diets can increase the amount of waste that the kidneys need to filter, which can cause strain on the organs. A high protein diet has been shown to lead to hyperfiltration, the first stage of kidney injury. So by reducing the amount of protein in the diet, the kidneys can more easily handle the workload and prevent further damage. This is largely because a low protein diet reduces the amount of waste products in the blood. Certain amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins, can produce harmful waste products when they are broken down. By consuming a lower amount of protein, there will be less of these waste products to filter out, which can help reduce the burden on the kidneys. 

Interestingly, plant protein has not been found to cause hyperfiltration like animal protein does. Therefore, there is a simple way to reduce animal protein in the diet; this is by committing to eating more plant-based diet. Another benefit of a low protein diet is that this diet also tend to contain less phosphorus, and so lead to less phosphorus in the blood. Even though phosphorus is an essential mineral, high levels of it can be harmful for individuals with CKD. High levels of phosphorus can cause the formation of mineral deposits in the kidneys, leading to damage. A low-protein diet can help reduce the amount of phosphorus in the blood, reducing the risk of further damage to the kidneys. An extremely low protein intake can also have negative effects on the body. A balanced diet that is limited in protein but still provides enough of the nutrients for overall health is key for individuals with CKD. In conclusion, low-protein diets can play a vital role in improving kidney function in individuals with chronic kidney disease. By reducing the workload on the kidneys, reducing the levels of waste products in the blood, and controlling phosphorus levels, a low protein diet can help protect the kidneys and prevent further damage.