A 50-year-old male is diagnosed with end-stage renal failure. His current condition indicates the need for dialysis and is prescribed to follow a low-protein diet. This diet prescription is based on the principle that:

Explanation

• Urea, a by-product of protein metabolism in the liver, is normally excreted by the kidneys. During renal failure, the ability of the kidneys to excrete normal waste is limited or absent dependent on the severity of renal failure

• A low protein diet is prescribed to reduce the amount of urea in the body

• Consuming a high amount of protein can increase serum urea. This will increase the flow and pressure in the nephrons, causing additional damage to the kidneys

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