A low protein diet is recommended for certain health conditions. Impaired liver function, kidney disease or disorders that interfere with protein metabolism, low protein dietIt is one of the most common situations that may require it.
What is a low protein diet?
A low protein diet requires restricting the amount of protein consumed, with protein generally accounting for 4-8% of daily calories. Accordingly, it is necessary to consume 20-50 grams of protein per day.
In comparison, it is recommended that the average person should have at least 10-15% of their daily calories from protein. This amount increases for athletes, older adults, and those with certain health conditions.
Protein is vital for health, but reducing protein intake is essential for people with certain conditions. In particular, it benefits those with kidney or liver function problems.
Also, homocystinuria andphenylketonuria It is also required for disorders affecting protein metabolism.
What are the benefits of a low protein diet?
The benefits of a low protein diet apply to people with certain health conditions or diseases rather than those who are healthy.
When protein is eaten, it is broken down by the liver and a waste product called urea is produced, which is excreted by the kidneys.
Reducing protein intake is beneficial for people with liver disease or kidney dysfunction because it eases the workload of the liver and kidneys and prevents the formation of urea in the bloodstream.
The presence of high levels of urea in the blood causes fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss and changes in mental state. It is also associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and death in those with heart failure.
Reducing protein intake is also necessary for genetic disorders that affect protein metabolism, such as homocystinuria and phenylketonuria. These disorders disrupt the breakdown of specific amino acids, so reducing protein intake helps minimize symptoms.
Protein is a very important nutrient for growth and development. The body uses it to form the basis of muscles, skin and bones, to produce important enzymes and hormones, and to build and repair tissues.
Studies,lack of proteinIt can have detrimental health effects, including impaired immune function, muscle wasting and growth retardation in children
Aside from the possible health risks, it is very difficult to reduce protein intake. A low protein diet requires careful planning to meet other nutritional needs.
Because of its potential dangers and health risks, do not go on a low protein diet unless you have an underlying health condition and are under direct medical supervision.
What to eat on a low protein diet?
In a low protein diet, it is necessary to avoid consuming high protein foods and eat foods with low protein content.
Here is a list of foods to eat and avoid on a low protein diet.
Fruits: Apple, banana, pear, peach, strawberry, grapefruit etc.
Vegetables: Tomatoes, asparagus, peppers, broccoli, leafy greens, etc.
Cereals: Rice, oats, bread, pasta, barley, etc.
Healthy oils: Avocado, olive oil and coconut oil.
What can't be eaten on a low protein diet?
Even if you're on a low protein diet, protein is still a necessary part of the diet. However, you should consume high-protein foods in moderation, such as animal products and plant-based proteins.
Meats such as chicken, turkey, beef
Fish and shellfish
egg
Legumes, including beans, peas, and lentils
Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt
Soy products
Nuts like walnuts, almonds, and pistachios
Seeds such as chia seeds, flax seeds, and hemp seeds
A low protein diet should be followed under the strict guidance of a dietitian specializing in liver and kidney diseases.
The diet should be designed to meet the nutritional needs of the dieter and reduce the workload on the kidneys.
Who should do a low protein diet?
People with certain metabolic disorders, such as phenylketonuria (PKU), homocystinuria, liver disorders, kidney problems, high levels of uric acid or protein sensitivity, should follow a low protein diet under appropriate supervision.
However, such a diet is not necessary for healthy individuals. Also, a low protein diet requires careful planning to minimize potential health risks and nutritional deficiencies.
It should only be done under medical supervision and a doctor or dietician should be consulted before starting.
