Understanding Protein for Dialysis Patients
A Patient Guide to Meeting Your Protein Needs
Why Protein Matters
Your body relies on protein to maintain muscle strength, support your immune system, and help you recover from illness or infection. During dialysis, the process can remove some protein from your bloodstream, which means you may need more than the general population. Eating enough high-quality protein each day helps protect your strength, energy, and overall health.
Protein Sources That Are Kidney-Friendly
Here are examples of foods that provide high-quality protein:
✔ Lean meats and poultry (e.g., chicken, turkey, lean beef or pork)
✔ Fish and seafood
✔ Eggs or egg whites
✔ Beans, lentils, and tofu (check with your care team if you need to limit potassium)
✔ Nut butters, such as peanut or almond butter (watch portions as they are calorie-dense)
Label tip: Choose products with minimal additives. Avoid foods with added phosphates or high sodium, which may appear on ingredient lists as “phosphate,” “phosphoric,” or any word ending in “-phos.”
Simple Ways to Boost Your Protein Intake
You can increase your daily protein by making small adjustments such as:
✔ Add a palm-sized portion of protein to your meals whenever possible
✔ Snack wisely — try hard-boiled eggs, tuna on low-sodium crackers, or a small peanut butter sandwich
✔ Eat your protein foods first when you’re hungry to ensure you meet your needs
✔ Modify textures if needed — moistening protein foods with broth, gravy (low sodium), or sauces can help with chewing or swallowing
✔ Ask your dietitian about protein supplements if you struggle to meet your goals through food alone
How Do I Know If I’m Getting Enough Protein?
Your dialysis dietitian can help you determine:
- Your personal daily protein target
- How to divide protein throughout the day
- Whether you need snacks or supplements
- How much of certain foods (like beans, lentils, or tofu) is safe based on potassium levels
Your care team monitors your lab work, muscle mass, and appetite — all of which help guide your individual protein plan.
Note:
Some plant-based proteins are higher in potassium. Always follow the portion recommendations provided by your dietitian.
Medical Disclaimer
This resource is intended for general education only and does not replace personalized medical or nutrition advice. Patients on dialysis should follow individualized recommendations from their nephrologist and registered dietitian.
The dietary information provided in this resource is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual nutrition needs vary based on medical history, medications, allergies, and overall health status.
Before making any changes to your diet, trying new foods, modifying portion sizes, or following any nutrition recommendations, please consult your physician, registered dietitian, or other qualified healthcare provider. If you have diabetes, kidney disease, gastrointestinal conditions, food intolerances, or other chronic health concerns, discussing dietary changes with your healthcare team is especially important.