General
Protein Intake
Hey everyone, just wanted to get some input on how you all make sure you get enough protein? How do you navigate the changes in intake needs? For example, on dialysis, then during the various stages after transplant.
I would say I had the most difficult time while on dialysis because I did not have a good appetite and everything had a metallic taste. I would have the protein shakes, but I got pretty tired of having to drink one every single day. On top of that having a salt restriction makes it even harder when you can't even add salt to your eggs or chicken, haha!
Right after transplant was the easiest because I had an appetite and it was easy to include protein in all my meals and snacks. Now I am 9 years out and I recently learned that I have not been taking in enough protein. I go through ups and downs. Some weeks I am great with my diet and other weeks I forget to eat and end up having 1-2 small meals a day.
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I would ask for a referral to the nutritionist. They can guide you. It’s important to note that the current guidelines are not based on science but pseudo science and a properly trained, registered dietitian should be consulted.
My transplant team got me hooked up with a transplant team nutritionist. It was amazing! She suggested isopure powder for me. Of course talk to a nutritionist. It really helped me. I forget to eat. My husband feeds me! Lol
Transplant Patient
@TiaBean my husband also feeds me, otherwise I'm pretty sure I would starve.
I find it really easy to hit my protein goals, but maybe that's because I've always had to eat a higher protein diet? I naturally gravitate towards higher protein foods. I also do things like making collagen lattes, and I love sipping on some bone broth so that definitely helps too.
My biggest issue has always been getting enough calories. Which feels backwards to me 😅
Hi Dominika, I never had problems. Even during dialysis, I would eat some home made chicken salad before each session, so that I feel better. My intake was good, but after transplant the medical team told that more protein is good and I never had a problem with that, thank God.