Proteinuria refers to the presence of excessive protein in the urine. While a small amount of protein can be normal, elevated levels often indicate that the kidneys are not functioning optimally. It is not a disease itself, but rather a sign that the kidneys’ filters, called glomeruli, allow too much protein to escape into the urine. Addressing proteinuria is important as it can signal underlying health issues and lead to kidney damage.
What Proteinuria Means
The kidneys play an important role in filtering waste products from the blood while retaining important substances like proteins in the bloodstream. This filtration occurs in structures within the kidneys called glomeruli. Healthy kidneys prevent large protein molecules from passing into the urine.
When the glomeruli are damaged, they become less effective, allowing proteins, particularly albumin, to leak into the urine. This indicates kidney stress or damage. Persistent proteinuria can lead to declining kidney function and chronic kidney disease (CKD). It also increases cardiovascular risk.
Dietary Strategies
Managing dietary intake can influence proteinuria levels and support kidney health. Reducing sodium consumption is an important step, as high sodium intake can contribute to elevated blood pressure, straining the kidneys. Limiting processed foods, reading nutrition labels, and choosing fresh ingredients helps control sodium intake.
While protein is necessary for the body, excessive consumption can place a greater burden on compromised kidneys. It is advisable to discuss personalized protein recommendations with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian, who can guide on appropriate amounts and plant-based sources. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, supports kidney health and aids proteinuria reduction. Moderating saturated fats and cholesterol also contributes to cardiovascular health, indirectly benefiting kidney function.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Adopting certain lifestyle changes can contribute to reducing proteinuria and protecting kidney health. Maintaining healthy blood pressure is important, as chronic high blood pressure can damage blood vessels within the kidneys. Regular physical activity, stress management techniques, and adherence to prescribed medications help keep blood pressure healthy.
For individuals with diabetes, precise blood sugar management is important. Uncontrolled high blood sugar can directly harm kidney filters, leading to increased protein leakage. Monitoring glucose levels and following a healthcare provider’s recommendations for diet and medication helps mitigate this risk. Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight lessens the strain on kidneys, as obesity is a known contributor to kidney dysfunction.
Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking for at least 30 minutes most days of the week, supports cardiovascular health, aids blood pressure and weight management, and improves insulin sensitivity. Quitting smoking is another important step, as tobacco use impairs kidney and cardiovascular health. Limiting alcohol intake to moderate levels also supports well-being and kidney function.
Medical Interventions and Monitoring
Beyond dietary and lifestyle adjustments, medical interventions play an important role in managing proteinuria and protecting kidney function. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) are prescribed medications that work by relaxing blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and reducing pressure within the kidney’s filtering units. This action helps decrease protein leakage into the urine and protects the kidneys. Other medications may also be prescribed to address underlying conditions that contribute to proteinuria, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
Regular medical check-ups are important for monitoring kidney health. Doctors often use tests like the urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to assess the amount of protein in the urine and kidney filtering efficiency. The UPCR measures the ratio of protein to creatinine in a urine sample, a standardized measure of protein excretion, while eGFR estimates kidney filtration rate. Adhering to a doctor’s prescribed treatment regimen and lifestyle recommendations is important for managing proteinuria and preserving kidney health.