Low-protein Diet

The low-protein diet, as the name suggests, is a diet in which the intake of protein is less. You may have come across many diet plans that advise a high protein diet, as proteins are essential for the human body. Proteins are called building blocks of the body and are required to carry out several functions in the body. In that case, one may find that following a diet low in protein is contradictory.

Low-protein Foods and Diet

A diet with reduced intake of proteins is usually advised to people suffering from kidney and liver diseases. When a person suffers from kidney diseases, naturally, his kidneys do not function properly. In that case, if he consumes too much protein, urea starts building up in the bloodstream. This can lead to several side effects like nausea and complete loss of appetite. Therefore, people suffering from kidney diseases or complete renal failure are advised to go for a diet that has less amounts of proteins. On the other hand, in case of liver diseases, due to the malfunction of the liver, food does not get metabolized properly. This can be harmful if excess proteins are present in the body. Therefore, doctors advise people suffering from liver or kidney diseases to go for a low-protein diet.

Protein is found in large amounts in nearly all non vegetarian foodstuffs like eggs, meat, poultry, fish; and dairy foods like milk, yogurt, cheese, etc. These are the top sources of proteins. It is also found in several vegetarian foods like beans, lentils, several fruits and vegetables. If you follow this diet, you need to eliminate all protein rich snacks from the diet. You should also limit the intake of meat, eggs and milk products. Protein fortified products like breakfast cereal, protein powders and supplements, etc. should be completely avoided.

Fruits and vegetables, whole grain breads, low-sugar cereals, brown rice and whole-wheat pastas contain lesser amounts of proteins and can be included in this diet. However, one should note that there are several fruits and vegetables that contain good amounts of proteins. One should exclude these fruits and vegetables or have them in lesser quantity. Low protein breads and pastas, fruits juices, hot dog, burger (without cheese), corn, ketchup, salads (without dressing), etc. are some of the protein free foods.

Effects of Low-protein Diet

Apart from the above mentioned benefits, having a diet low in protein also helps in prevention of kidney diseases. Consuming large amounts of protein exerts extra pressure on the kidneys, which makes them work harder. If this continues for a longer period of time, it can result in kidney diseases or kidney failure. On the other hand, eating too much protein with low carbohydrates can lead to a condition known as ketosis. If ketosis persists for a longer period of time, it can lead to several long term side effects like lethargy, lack of energy, dehydration, etc. Secondly, excess consumption of proteins also leads to excess calcium requirement. This can lead to a calcium deficiency. If the body is deficient in calcium, it takes up calcium from the bones making them weak. The longer effects of this can lead to osteoporosis. Protein supplements should also be consumed under a doctor's supervision. On the other hand, one should also be aware of that extreme low intake of proteins can lead to protein deficiency which can lead to abnormal growth. This diet should not be followed by those thinking of building muscle, as proteins are very essential for building muscle mass.

Lastly, one should note that this diet is mostly followed only by those suffering from kidney diseases. In other cases, it is better to consult the doctor before making any major dietary changes. Take care!