Protein in urine: causes, symptoms, and ways to reduce it
The presence of protein in the urine, also called proteinuria, is a common condition that affects many people. It is usually detected during a routine urine test and can indicate an underlying health issue.
In this post, we will explore what protein in urine means, what causes it, and, most importantly, whether drinking water can reduce protein in the urine.
What does protein in the urine mean?
Protein in urine is a condition where the kidneys filter more protein than they should.
Typically, the kidneys filter waste products from the blood, including excess water and salt, and retain essential substances like proteins. However, when the kidneys are damaged, they may not be able to retain proteins, allowing them to pass into the urine.
Too much protein in urine can be an early sign of kidney disease or other medical conditions that affect the kidneys, such as diabetes, hypertension, lupus, and multiple myeloma. However, it is important to note that not all cases of proteinuria indicate kidney disease, and some may be temporary due to factors such as dehydration or strenuous exercise.
What causes protein in urine?
Several factors can cause proteinuria, including:
Kidney damage: Any kidney damage, such as inflammation, infection, or injury, can lead to proteinuria.
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys' filters, causing them to leak protein into the urine. According to the American Association of Kidney Patients, in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, small amounts of protein may appear in the urine.
High blood pressure: High blood pressure can damage the kidneys and cause proteinuria.
Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can damage the kidneys and lead to proteinuria.
Infections: Infections of the urinary tract, bladder, or kidneys can cause temporary proteinuria.
Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and ACE inhibitors, can cause proteinuria.
Proteinuria definition
Proteinuria is a medical term that refers to the presence of protein in the urine.
What does protein in urine look like?
Protein in the urine cannot be seen with the naked eye, and a urine test is required to detect its presence. The normal urine protein range is less than 150 milligrams per day.
Trace protein in the urine, which is less than 30 milligrams per day, is not considered abnormal, and it may be due to factors such as dehydration, fever, or stress. However, persistent high protein in urine levels may indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.
Symptoms of protein in the urine
In most cases, proteinuria does not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, in more severe cases, it can cause symptoms such as:
Foamy urine: The presence of protein in urine can cause it to appear foamy or frothy.
Swelling: Proteinuria can cause swelling in the feet, ankles, or face.
Fatigue: Proteinuria can cause fatigue due to anemia, a common complication of kidney disease.
Will drinking water reduce protein in urine?
Drinking water is essential for maintaining kidney function and reducing the risk of kidney damage. However, no direct evidence exists that drinking water alone can reduce proteinuria.
Protein in urine causes are varied and may require specific treatment options based on the underlying condition. For example, if proteinuria is due to diabetes, controlling blood sugar levels will help. Similarly, controlling your blood pressure is the best action if proteinuria results from hypertension.
Some lifestyle changes can also help reduce proteinuria. These include:
Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can strain the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney damage.
Eating a balanced diet: A diet high in protein can put extra strain on the kidneys and increase proteinuria. A balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help reduce the risk of kidney damage.
Reducing salt intake: A high salt intake can increase blood pressure and cause kidney damage. Reducing salt intake can help reduce proteinuria and protect kidney function.
Staying hydrated: Drinking enough water can help keep the kidneys functioning properly and reduce the risk of kidney damage.
Avoiding smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can increase the risk of kidney damage and should be avoided or limited.
Protein in urine means that further medical evaluation is required to determine the underlying cause of the proteinuria. Early detection and treatment of the underlying condition can help prevent or slow the progression of chronic kidney damage.
Foods that cause protein in the urine
As mentioned above, a diet high in protein can increase the risk of proteinuria. Some foods that are high in protein and can cause proteinuria include the following:
Red meat: Beef, pork, and lamb are all high in protein and can increase the risk of kidney damage.
Dairy products: Milk, cheese, and other dairy products are high in protein and can increase the risk of kidney damage.
Eggs: Eggs are a good source of protein, but consuming an excessive amount can increase the risk of kidney damage.
Soy products: Soy products like tofu and soy milk are high in protein and can increase the risk of kidney damage.
Processed foods: Processed foods like deli meats, sausages, and fast food are often high in protein and can increase the risk of kidney damage.
It is important to note that a balanced diet that includes protein is essential for overall health. However, moderation is key when consuming protein-rich foods to reduce the risk of proteinuria.
Proteinuria: the bottom line
Protein in the urine may indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.
While drinking water alone may not directly reduce proteinuria, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure levels, and addressing the underlying condition can help reduce protein in urine levels and protect kidney function.
If you have been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, the Reset Kidney Health team can help. We know from experience that early treatment for kidney disease saves lives. With Reset, you can easily schedule appointments with our world-class kidney specialists and nutritionists to manage your diet for optimal kidney health and to get the exceptional treatment you deserve. We are currently accepting new patients. Call us to speak with a member of our care team today.
