Plant-Based Protein Diet

This is why a low-protein diet is highly recommended for CKD patients who are not undergoing dialysis. KDIGO, a non-profit organization advocating for evidence-based clinical practice in managing kidney disease, suggests lowering protein intake to 0.6 to 0.8 g/kg a day.

Following a plant-based diet is one of the best ways to minimize protein levels in the blood and slow down the decline of kidney function.

Research published in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases (AJKD) suggests that eating plant-based protein sources instead of meat could play a significant role in improving the health of people with declining kidney function.

The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) also states that CKD patients who follow a plant-based diet are at an advantage of slowing down the progression of their kidney disease. These are other known benefits of eating plant-based protein sources:

Meatless protein sources that provide you with all the vitamins and nutrients your body needs are called “complete” proteins. These foods are packed with essential amino acids (including lysine and tryptophan) which are proteins converted by your body to build your cells, muscles, and organs. 

Every person has unique nutrient requirements. The right amount of protein your body needs depends on your age, gender, weight, general health condition, and your CKD stage. 

To give you an idea, below are estimates (in grams) of how much protein do common plant sources contain according to the NKF:

1. Soy products - Research suggests that soy protein can help prevent renal malfunction in people at the early stages of kidney disease. Popular soy products include tofu, soy milk, soy yogurt, soy cheese, and a type of soy paste called tempeh.
2. Beans and legumes - Another staple of a plant-based diet are beans and legumes which are also rich in carbohydrates and fiber. You can add them in your soup or salad for added taste and texture. Examples of these are red/kidney beans, black beans, lentils, and chickpeas. Make sure to choose salt- and additive-free varieties if you are getting packaged beans.
3. Meat substitutes - Tofu or bean burgers look and taste like meat, but are low in protein and saturated fat. However, it may not be healthy for everyone with CKD. Seek your nephrologist/renal dietitian’s advice to know if they are good for you.
4. Whole grains - Rice, cereals, breads, pastas, and flour that are made from whole grains are abundant in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of whole grains is linked to lower risk of diabetes, heart disease, and improved digestion. CHOOSE WHOLE GRAIN PRODUCTS THAT DON’T HAVE ADDED SUGARS. OTHER EXAMPLES OF WHOLE GRAINS ARE QUINOA, BARLEY, OATMEAL, AND BROWN RICE.
5. Nuts and seeds - They are not only healthy snack options, but nuts and seeds are excellent sources of protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, you can count on peanuts, almonds, cashews, chia seeds, sesame seeds, flax seeds, or walnuts to make your salads, baked goods, and other dishes more flavorful.
6. Healthy oils - You can flavor up your salads, soups, and stir-fried dishes and still make it easy on your kidneys by using healthy oil varieties. Examples of these are olive oil and sesame oil. Olive oil is great for people with kidney disease as it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
7. Natural herbs and spices - Perk up your meals with dried thyme, paprika, cumin, ground chillies, and cinnamon. Avoid salt substitutes as they are loaded with potassium (a no-go especially for people with late-stage CKD and high blood pressure).
8. Condiments - Vinegar, hot sauce, black pepper, lemon juice, tahini (sauce made from ground sesame seeds), and salt-free seasoning products are great options for making vegetarian dishes more appetizing. 

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