The Protein Requirements in a Dialysis Patient

In the United States alone, there are about 26 million people who have chronic kidney disease with further risk for others to also develop it in near future. This data is much worse for the developing countries. This disease is quite serious in nature and should be diagnosed and treated at its earliest stage in order to avoid grave consequences. The kidneys manage the waste filtration in the human body and eventually eliminate the harmful waste products that are present in the body. When the kidneys are chronically diseased and are near failure, it is important that they are transplanted or undergo the procedure of dialysis in order to reduce the stress on the failing kidneys. High risk factors of kidney failure is in patients who suffer from diabetes, hypertension or have a family history of kidney disease. These people are typically of the African-American, Pacific Islander, Hispanic or the Native American lineage.

Chronic kidney disease is further categorized in to several stages in order to provide the exact mode of treatment accordingly. The early stages of this disease do not need to have drastic changes in the lifestyle and physician intervention. However, the more chronic stages need to have more restrictions as well as better control on a person’s lifestyle and eating habits. A nutritionist helps such patients plan their diets accordingly.

Protein is an essential component in one’s life and needs to be present in their diets in almost all the stages of life. Improper restrictions on the protein intake can actually be harmful for the body. Kidney conditions generally needs to have a lower protein intake but such patients tend to face a lot of difficulty as they crave for foods which are high in protein.

When the body consumes proteins, it is changed into amino acids which are transformed in to the amino acids, enzymes or hormones that are needed by the body. Sleep, digestion, ovulation and other such processes need these hormones for their proper execution. The waste that is left behind is filtered by the kidneys. Kidneys are so powerful that they can filter approximately 18 gallons of blood every hour. That is why, these organs are able to filter 60% of the body’s fluid.

When a kidney is damaged or undergoes disease/infection, it is unable to filter the waste that is produced due to the breakdown of protein. The Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) shows the progress of this disease. GFR is acceptable at Stage 1 which however, signifies that the kidneys are not working properly and that there is something wrong with them due to the variation in protein found in the urine. Dialysis is not done until stage V is achieved.

When the disease progresses to Stage V, the patients would have to undergo lifelong dialysis treatment unless they undergo a kidney transplant. Sometimes though, patients cannot be prepared for transplants due to some limiting factors such as some medical condition or other complication. The GFR is the fifth stage of disease is less than 15 which shows that the kidneys are running at about less than 10% of their total capacity.

Stage V patient and its diet:

A reduced protein diet is indicated for patients who are in Stage I to Stage IV of the kidney disease. Initially the protein reduction doesn’t seem to be a major change as it is decreased from 14-18% to 10%. Even in a vegan, there is about 10-12% protein so patients generally find it easy to comply with this change. However, it is important that a physician is consulted before bringing about such a huge change in their diet so that unwanted complications are avoided.

In Stage V, there is direct chronic renal failure so the protein restriction is not important as these patients have to undergo dialysis regularly and therefore, need good nutrition. Moreover, enhanced amount of protein is needed so that the body is stronger. Sodium, potassium and phosphorus are therefore restricted. The fluid intake should also be reduced. Therefore, the dialysis patient has to undergo a limited dietary intake in order to avoid complications.

The procedure of dialysis involves the use of a machine to filter the waste from the blood. It therefore does the functions of the failing kidneys. This process normally takes some hours and has to be done thrice a week for effectiveness. That is why, the patients’ diet is carefully monitored so that they have enough calories to keep their muscles in shape and have a healthy body. The protein is therefore needed from high amino acid sources like eggs, dairy products and meat. Some other high protein foods are not recommended in this case as they do not have all the important amino acids that are needed such as beans, nuts and butter. That is why eggs and meat are preferred by the dieticians. Protein supplements can also be utilized as an important element of the diet so as to maintain a steady amount of protein into the system. About 25% of the daily requirement needs to be made up of protein in such patients. However, those protein foods that are high in phosphorous would need to be restricted such as organ meats, sardines, chocolate, dried beans, bran cereals and brown rice. An early sign of phosphorous is extremely itchy skin which denotes excessive phosphorous content inside the blood.

Using supplements for extra protein source:

For someone who has last stage renal failure, it is important that the protein amount should be doubled. However, these patients would still face exhaustion, lack of appetite and nausea due to which consuming nutrients gets difficult. That is why protein supplements are very useful in this case. They come in different forms which are as follows:

Powder form: Protein supplements, in the form of powders come in different types: egg, soy, rice and whey. Whey powder enhances the immunity and helps the muscles be in proper shape. However, because whey is derived from milk, therefore, some people might not be able to take it.

Shakes: Protein shakes are also a good source of proteins and are available in different varieties such as those for the diabetics, etc.

Shots: Supplement shots are also available which are in a smaller serving quantity as compared to the shake but have the same protein and nutritional benefits.

Snacks: Especially formulated bars and puddings are available which are a good protein source. Those with more sugar content should be avoided as excessive sugar degrades the immunity.

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Protein requirements in an HIV patient

HIV – also known as Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a critical virus that causes AIDS, a deadly syndrome in which the body destroys its own immune system, making it vulnerable to a lot of other diseases. This results in the normal ordinary infections becoming dangerous to the human body as the immune system fails to detect and counteract them, thereby making them quite life threatening. About 75% of people who get infected with this virus do not exhibit any signs or symptoms for about more than 10 years. That is why there are lesser indications which alert patients at the early disease stage which ends up making them ignorant about the early signs and symptoms. Abnormal pap smears, pelvic diseases and chronic, persistent yeast infections are some alert signs. That is why; every person who is active sexually should get themselves tested for these early signs and symptoms and keep a check of their disease status.

Once a person finds out that they are HIV positive, then they should not take it as a death sentence, rather incorporate those changes that are needed in order to fully live life. It is also important that once a person becomes HIV positive, they should change their attitude and practice towards sex. They should be aware that they cant donate blood and should inform their doctors/dentists when they go for any treatment. Treatment in the form of medication should be taken so that the symptomatic treatment can be done to prevent long term damage. However, other than treatment, changing one’s diet is also an important element of managing this condition. Dietary guidelines should be consulted with the physician or nutritionist so that the changes are done as per a person’s nutritional requirement.

Nutritional aggression compared to the dietary needs:

Many medicines have evolved for the management of HIV disease which not only combat the battle but also give a better quality of life to the infected patients. Better nutrition and diet supplements also tend to improve the management of this disease. This fact is also supported by a study conducted by John Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health. Nutritionals boosts also tend to improve and steady a regular health status and keep the health stable enough to prevent the complications of this disease. These elements include:

Increased calories
Hydration
Protein

Increased calories:

Increased calories can give you the enhanced energy that you need. In an HIV patient, these extra calories tend to give you the extra energy for your life. Moreover, calories from healthy diets also give minerals and vitamins to the body. It is also important that the majority of these supplements should be consumes from natural sources rather than the synthetic ones.

Hydration:

Everybody needs to keep their body hydrated as water makes up more than 70% of the human body. The body should therefore be kept well hydrated so that not only the fluid is maintained, but also the electrolyte balance of the body is maintained. The electrolytes are used to keep the body functions intact and in case of an imbalance in the electrolyte concentration, the signals in the body get crossed and cause problems such as heart beat irregularities, etc. Too little fluid in the body also tends to cause dehydration in the body. Dehydration results in very serious consequences in HIV patients. Fluids are used to transport different micronutrients and medicines throughout the body. If a body is dehydrated, it would not be able to transport or break down the medicine in the body. About six to ten glasses of fluids should be consumed everyday in the form of milk, juices or plain water. It is also recommended that sodas, coffee or alcohols are avoided so that they do not cause dehydration.

Protein:

A very essential role is played by protein to provide the functioning of every cell in the human body. Proteins also tend to build and strengthen the immunity, increase the muscle mass and improve the overall health of the human body. In HIV patients, it is important that the proteins are consumed in the form of supplements such as Profect by Protica and other such brands, so as to maintain a stable and steady supply of proteins in the body. Moreover, while consuming proteins, it is important that the body is well hydrated because proteins also tend to cause dehydration.

It is suggested by doctors that other than the protein supplements, an HIV infected person should consume about 20 grams of proteins in every meal, thereby having high protein foods. During meals, high protein snacks can be consumed such as powders, protein shakes or bars. These protein snacks and supplements should be used according to their set guidelines so that the immunity of an HIV patient remains at its optimum condition.

Protein bars provide about 5 to 10 grams of proteins and few sugars. The sugar content of a protein bar should be regularly checked as excessive sugars also tend to deplete the immune system. Protein shakes and powder provide instant protein to the body and do not contain any negative ingredients.

Liquid supplement protein shots are a good suggestion to take if they are taken under proper guidelines i.e. being high in protein content and low in sugars. This makes them easily absorbable by the human body.

Whey proteins are also a good supplementary option for HIV positive patients. Firstly, this whey protein helps to provide the best protein source to the human body along with the intake of other dietary elements such as fats, carbs and vitamins. These proteins also help to boost the immune system. Those patients who are lactose intolerant should avoid using whey protein concentrate and prefer using whey protein isolate as it has lesser lactose while giving the same amount benefits.

Whey protein isolates are 90% proteins and other than boosting the immunity, these also tend to provide the optimum level of amino acids needed by the body. Protein is broken down into amino acids which are then used to create the amino acids not found in the body along with other elements such as enzymes and hormones. The body also produces its own amino acids but isn’t able to produce 8 particular ones. These essential amino acids, not produced by the body are then taken from foods and supplements.

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Changes brought about by Aging and how to combat them

Aging is the phenomenon in which the body undergoes a lot of physical changes. These physical changes lead to different problems in the human body which are inflicted upon a person’s health, psychology and lifestyle. However, it is quite understood that because aging is bound to happen, one should prepare for it before hand.

The changes that are brought about by aging are quite variable. The change in lifestyle, for instance, decreases the social interactions of a person. This can be due to physical changes in the body resulting in feeling of fatigue or due to some disease. Common problems faced by old people include bone pain, joint pain, back pain, etc. Diseases common to this age include cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal disease and gastric diseases. That is why; many old people get irritable as they are not really prepared for all this and psychologically miss their charismatic youth.

The purpose of this article is to guide you about the changes that happen while aging and how one can slow them. There are two main components that you should adopt while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These are proper diet and exercise. It is important that a balance should be kept while consuming food. Saturated fats are the cause of cardiac problems which include high blood pressure, heart attacks, angina, etc. So, these should be strictly avoided. Meanwhile mono and polyunsaturated fats should be consumed which are not that harmful. Similarly, complex carbohydrates which are included in whole grains and vegetables should be consumed rather than simple carbohydrates so that they are absorbed properly and does not harm the glucose level of body. The third element, i.e. proteins is quite important as they are an essential part of the human cells, form the lean muscle and strengthen the immune system of the body. The proportion of these elements in the diet varies from person to person so it is best recommended that one should consume them according to the dietician’s instructions.

Exercise is an important aspect of one’s life as it causes many changes in the body which regulates one’s health. For instance, exercising builds up the muscle mass, rejuvenates the cardiac system and makes waste elimination easier. It also reduces obesity which is a common risk factor for many diseases. At least, half an hour of exercise should be done daily in order to re-vitalize the body.

Other than exercise and diet, one should regularly take vitamins and other minerals in the form of food or supplements so that the body’s needs are met. Different vitamins can be taken via vegetables and fruits. Important vitamins such as Vitamin D are essential to keep the bones strong. Vitamin C and E strengthen the immune system while Vitamin B complex are a group of vitamins that form some vital enzymes. Therefore, supplements of multivitamin should be taken daily to boost the system. Also, regular visits to the doctor should be made to monitor the health. After all, prevention is better than cure!

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Assembling A First Aid Kit For Babies

Seeing a baby under go an emergency situation can possibly be one of the worst things one can ever witness. Parents and child care workers should both be highly concerned regarding the safety of a baby and this is one thing that would give them sleepless nights. However, one should be in control and anticipate and prepare themselves for the worst situations ever, so that when it occurs, they can handle it well. The basic thing to know while anticipating emergencies for babies is the tools involved in preparing a comprehensive kit for the first aid of babies. You would feel greatly relieved once you know that you have the right tools to control the emergency situation.

A lot of people are now well equipped with first aid kits at their homes, workplaces or schools. So generally, one has an idea about what goes into the first aid kit. However, the first aid kit for babies has general as well as some particular equipment that is quite important and pertain specifically to the care of babies. A lot of stores which sell first aid kits are also now equipped with specialized kits for babies. These stores sell a variety of first aid kits which are either pre-packaged or you can even customize it as per your need.

A baby’s first aid kit should be present in your baby’s diaper bag, in your vehicle as well as in your home. You might feel over prepared but it comes in really handy when you are in need and have the kit available with you. A baby’s first aid kit should always have its pediatrician’s phone number, pharmacy’s as well as poison control center’s phone numbers in it. It should also have the health insurance information that is quite important.

Other important elements of baby’s first aid kits include oral and rectal thermometers. The most accurate reading is attained by the rectal thermometer. However, quite nonetheless, the oral thermometer should also be kept in the kit as it is used mostly with older children. Moreover, the kit should have pain killers and fever relieving syrups which should be as per the baby’s dosage requirements. Small bandages, alcohol/anti septic for wound cleaning, anti bacterial wipes, sunscreen, Ipecac syrup and any other medicines that your child regularly takes should also be a part of the first aid kit.

This is a general list of the requirements that are an important part of the baby’s first aid kit. In that way, you can have good quality equipment at a lower rate as well as the convenience of including all the important things in the kit which are specific to your child’s needs. This would not only keep you prepared for the unexpected, but also bring you comfort in knowing that your child is safe and can be comforted in case it is injured or un well.

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Side Effects of taking Casein Protein

Casein is a protein that is generally found in dairy products such as milk, cheese, yoghurt and butter. This protein is also taken as a supplement by those who want to build their muscles via protein supplement intake. Therefore, casein is not only a part of the dairy or some non dairy products, but is also an essential component for those who go on protein diets in order to build their muscles. This protein, when taken naturally, is not as harmful but it does have few side effects which are as follows:

Allergic reactions:

Some people tend to be allergic to casein and there by, show different reactions to it. Immediate reactions, also known as anaphylactic reactions, occur commonly in these people. Some people might also exhibit delayed reactions. Allergic reactions to casein can be manifested by rashes, fever, hives, wheals, erythema, sneezing and even difficulty in breathing. People who are allergic to casein should therefore avoid all the dairy products and even those non dairy products which tend to contain casein.

Gastrointestinal disturbance:

People who are unable to digest casein or take too much of it face severe gastrointestinal disturbance. The symptoms of this varies from bloating to nausea, vomiting or even diarrhea. Proper management of this condition should be done and casein should again be avoided in these people as they are unable to tolerate any kind of casein intake.

Food cravings:

Casein intake generally causes food cravings in people and tends to increase their appetite. This phenomenon is proved by a study conducted in which it was found that when casein is digested, it breaks down into an opiate product which is similar to morphine. The resultant effect of that opiate compound is that it causes hunger pangs and a craving for that product consumed. For instance, after the consumption of cheese, one might feel hunger pangs and craving for more cheese which is not psychological, but rather related to the opiate released from the casein present in cheese.

The above mentioned side effects of casein should not be over looked and taken care of while consuming dairy products and supplements.

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