What is the role of protein intake in PD patients?

• A. Adequate protein intake is essential to replace protein losses in the dialysate and prevent malnutrition.
• B. Protein intake has no impact on outcomes.
• C. It is only important to meet energy needs.
• D. Excess protein cures peritoneal membrane damage.

Answer: (A)

Protein intake in PD patients matters because peritoneal dialysis causes ongoing loss of protein and amino acids into the dialysis fluid. Because these losses elevate daily protein requirements, meeting adequate protein intake is essential to prevent malnutrition and low serum albumin. Adequate protein supports immune function, wound healing, and maintaining muscle mass, all of which influence outcomes. Relying only on calories without enough protein can still lead to malnutrition and poorer health, even if energy needs are met. The idea that excess protein cures peritoneal membrane damage isn’t correct; membrane issues aren’t fixed by more protein. So, the best answer is that adequate protein intake is essential to replace dialysate protein losses and prevent malnutrition, with a higher intake than the general population to compensate for losses (often around 1.2 g/kg/day or more).