What should be the protein intake for a patient in stage 4 kidney disease where GFR is between 15-29 mL/min?

In stage 4 kidney disease, indicated by a Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) between 15-29 mL/min, the appropriate protein intake is typically adjusted to minimize the workload on the kidneys while still meeting nutritional needs. The guideline for patients in this stage often recommends a lower protein intake, generally around 0.6 g/kg body weight. This lower protein intake is crucial to prevent further kidney deterioration, as excessive protein can lead to an accumulation of nitrogenous waste products that the kidneys struggle to excrete.

This recommendation takes into account the need to preserve kidney function and protect against diet-related complications, while also considering the patient's overall health, nutritional status, and needs for maintaining muscle mass and other bodily functions. Careful monitoring is necessary, as individual requirements can vary based on other factors such as the presence of diabetes, malnutrition, or comorbid conditions. Therefore, in stage 4 kidney disease, lowering protein intake to 0.6 g/kg body weight is the standard recommendation for managing the patient's condition effectively.