Impact of a Low-Protein Diet on the Nutritional Status of Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Not on Dialysis

Abstract

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition requiring dietary interventions to delay disease progression. A low-protein diet (LPD) is often recommended for CKD patients to manage uremic symptoms and reduce renal workload. However, the impact of LPD on nutritional status is a concern. This study explores the effects of LPD on the nutritional status of patients with CKD who are not on dialysis.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of a low-protein diet on the nutritional status of patients with chronic kidney disease not undergoing dialysis.

Material and Methods: This prospective study involved 80 patients diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, managed in the Department of Medicine at a tertiary care hospital. Patient selection was based on clinical and biochemical markers confirming CKD. Patients were prescribed a low-protein diet (0.6–0.8 g/kg/day) and were monitored for six months. Parameters such as body mass index (BMI), serum albumin, hemoglobin levels, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were recorded at baseline and follow-up.

Results: The results showed a statistically significant reduction in serum urea and creatinine levels, with no severe deterioration in BMI or serum albumin levels over the follow-up period. The mean BMI decreased slightly, indicating that the diet was well-tolerated without leading to malnutrition. Table 1 and 2 summarize the clinical and biochemical findings.

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that a low-protein diet is effective in stabilizing renal function without significantly compromising the nutritional status of CKD patients not on dialysis.

Keywords: Chronic kidney disease, low-protein diet, nutritional status, BMI, serum albumin