23/10/2025
*Protein intake and kidney disease*
Protein intake plays a crucial role in kidney health, especially for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The relationship depends on how healthy the kidneys are and how much protein is being consumed. Here’s a clear breakdown:
🧠 1. Why protein matters
Protein is essential for body repair, muscle maintenance, and immunity.
When protein is broken down, it produces nitrogenous waste (urea, creatinine) that the kidneys must filter out.
If kidneys are healthy, they can handle this easily.
If kidneys are damaged, excess protein can increase their workload and speed up progression of kidney disease.
⚖️ 2. In people with healthy kidneys
A normal protein intake (0.8–1.0 g/kg body weight/day) is safe.
Even slightly higher intakes (like in athletes) are not harmful if kidney function is normal and hydration is adequate.
👉 Example:
A 70 kg healthy adult = 56–70 g protein/day.
🚨 3. In people with chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Protein restriction is often advised depending on the stage of CKD:
CKD Stage eGFR (mL/min/1.73 m²) Recommended Protein Intake
Early CKD (1–2) (eGFR >60) ~0.8 g/kg/day
Moderate CKD (3) (eGFR30–59) 0.6–0.8 g/kg/day
Advanced CKD (4–5, not on dialysis)** (eGFR