Episode 168: Can You Take Protein Powder, Collagen & Creatine With Kidney Disease? A Kidney Dietitian Explains

Can you take protein powder, collagen or creatine if you have kidney disease? And could these popular supplements affect your kidneys, blood test results or dialysis treatment?

Protein powders, collagen and creatine are everywhere – from gyms and supermarkets to social media. But for people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney failure or receiving dialysis, deciding whether these supplements are appropriate isn’t always straightforward.

In this episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee Moore is joined by Tadala Kolawole, Senior Renal Dietitian, to explore protein, collagen and creatine through the lens of kidney disease.

Tadala has over a decade of experience in renal dietetics and is passionate about culturally appropriate nutrition, early detection and preventative kidney health education.

Together, Dee and Tadala discuss:

• What protein is and why the body needs it • What protein powders are and when they may be useful • Protein requirements in early-stage CKD • Protein needs in later-stage CKD • Why people receiving dialysis may need more protein • How to choose an appropriate protein supplement • What can happen when you consume too much protein • What collagen is and why people take collagen supplements • Whether collagen is suitable for people living with kidney disease • Potential risks of consuming too much collagen • What creatine is and how it works • Whether creatine is safe for people with kidney disease • The important difference between creatine and creatinine • How creatine supplementation may affect creatinine and eGFR blood test results • Why supplements need to be considered in the context of your individual kidney function, nutritional needs and treatment

Whether you are living with CKD, receiving dialysis, considering supplements for the gym, trying to maintain muscle, or simply want to understand how protein, collagen and creatine relate to kidney health, this conversation will help you ask better questions and make more informed decisions with your healthcare team.

Remember: more isn’t always better. Your protein and nutritional requirements can change depending on your stage of kidney disease, whether you receive dialysis and your individual circumstances.

🎧 Listen to the full audio episode now and share it with someone who may find this conversation helpful.

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📺 Prefer to watch? The full audio and visual version of this episode is also available on the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast YouTube channel https://youtu.be/LZUVnb2H6Rs

Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and should not replace personalised medical advice. If you have any concerns about your health, please speak with your healthcare professional.

Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast shares real stories and expert conversations to educate, empower and inspire people living with kidney disease and those who support them.

In partnership with Kidney Care UK.

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