Can there be too much protein?

It has long been recognized that adequate protein intake is needed throughout the life cycle and a necessary nutrient in tissue building and repair. For residents in long-term care facilities, adequate protein intake is a key component in a positive nitrogen balance that allows for healing of a variety of skin issues—including pressure ulcers, stasis or diabetic ulcers, skin tears, surgical incision sites and bone fractures. Providing adequate nutrients to residents to support the healing process is a key function of the facility nursing and food service departments. CMS looks closely to see that facilities are providing timely/ adequate nutrition for any needed healing to each resident.

Functions of the kidneys include the elimination of waste products (including urea from the metabolism of protein) from the blood and maintaining a balance between fluids and electrolytes. If the kidneys are not functioning at normal levels, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels will be elevated as urea remains in the blood. As well as being an indicator of hydration, BUN and creatinine levels can help identify patients who have impairment in kidney function for the clinician to take appropriate action to address their needs.

Research has shown that the progression of renal disease in individuals with mild to moderate renal insufficiency can be halted or delayed with diet and medication. In CKD with GFR’s of 15-59, the NKF recommends 0.6 to 0.8g of protein per kg body weight per day, with at least 60% of high biological value in addition to treating the disease state of HTN or uncontrolled blood sugar levels in diabetes, etc.