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Low Protein Diet

DESCRIPTION

Protein contains 16% nitrogen which the body eliminates in the urine as urea. In cases where liver or kidney function is impaired, ammonia or toxic nitrogen metabolites may build up in the blood. These toxins contribute to kidney disease and may produce behavioral changes such as delusions, psychosis and hallucinations. The Low Protein Diet is designed to reduce these nitrogen metabolites and ammonia in individuals with toxic bowel, liver disease or kidney failure. In order to achieve these objectives, dietary protein must be limited to 0.6 gram/kg (2.2 lbs) of body weight or about 40 to 50 grams per day.

The Protein Restricted Diet is useful for the management of liver and chronic kidney diseases. For optimal results protein-rich foods should be consumed throughout the day rather than at one meal.

The Low Protein Diet is deficient in protein and can result in muscle wasting. This is a consequence of muscle protein being broken down to provide amino acids to the body for daily use. This diet may also be low in iron, calcium, thiamine (Vitamin B-1), riboflavin (Vitamin B-2), and niacin (Vitamin B-3) and so a nutritional supplement may be necessary to prevent deficiency.

SAMPLE MENU FOR ONE DAY

Breakfast

1 orange 1 egg or egg substitute
1/2 cup rice or creamed cereal 1 slice whole wheat bread (toasted)
1/2 tablespoon margarine or butter 1/2 cup whole milk
Hot, non-caloric beverage
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

 

Lunch

1 ounce sliced turkey breast 1/2 cup steamed broccoli
1 slice whole wheat bread 1/2 tablespoon margarine or butter
1 apple 1/2 cup gelatin dessert
1 cup grape juice Hot, non-caloric beverage
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

 

Mid-Afternoon Snack

6 squares salt-free soda crackers 1/2 tablespoon margarine or butter
1 to 2 tablespoons jelly 1/2 cup apple juice

 

Dinner

1/2 cup tomato juice 1 ounce beef liver
1 baked potato 1 teaspoon margarine or butter (optional)
1/2 cup steamed spinach 1 slice whole wheat bread
1/3 cup sherbet 4 apricot halves
Hot, non-caloric beverage

 

Evening Snack

• 1 banana

Nutrient Content

Calories: 1850

Protein: 8%

Carbohydrates: 60%

Fat: 32%

Cholesterol: 380 mg

Fiber: 15 g

FOOD EXCHANGE MENU

Bread and Cereal Exchange List:

6 or more servings per day

Recommended:

• Gelatin • Popcorn

• Potatoes • Sweet potato

• Baked goods made with low protein flour or wheat starch

Avoid:

• High protein baked goods and cereals

• Beans (dried)

• Green peas and lentils

Fat Exchange List:

unlimited

Recommended:

All

Avoid: None

Fruit Exchange List:

3 or more servings per day

Recommended:

Fresh, frozen, canned or dried fruits, both whole and juice

Avoid: None

Meat and Meat Substitute Exchange List:

3 servings per day

Recommended: All meats may be coated with flour or wheat starch and fired to increase caloric content

Avoid: None

Milk Exchange List:

1/2 serving per day

Recommended:

Cream or whole milk, to increase calories

Avoid: Skim milk or milk (2% fat)

Vegetable Exchange List:

2 servings per day

Recommended:

Fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables, both whole and juice

Avoid: None

Note:

Be sure to include 6 to 8 cups of fluids, such as water, per day.

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