What is the recommended daily protein intake for patients on hemodialysis?

For patients on hemodialysis, the recommended daily protein intake is typically in the range of 1.2 to 1.3 grams per kilogram of body weight. This higher protein requirement is necessary due to the losses that occur during the dialysis process. When patients are on hemodialysis, they lose some amino acids and proteins through the dialysate, and their bodies may need additional protein to compensate for these losses and maintain protein balance.

Moreover, patients with chronic kidney disease who are on hemodialysis often deal with malnutrition due to various factors, including poor appetite, dietary restrictions, and inflammation. Therefore, ensuring an adequate protein intake supports muscle mass preservation, helps stabilize nutritional status, and promotes overall health for these individuals.

In contrast, the lower protein intakes suggested in other options are generally not sufficient for patients undergoing hemodialysis to meet their nutritional requirements, as they do not account for the protein losses associated with the dialysis process. Thus, the recommendation of 1.2 to 1.3 grams per kilogram aligns with clinical guidelines aimed at optimizing the nutritional health and well-being of hemodialysis patients.