The Effects of Protein Supplementation and Resistance Exercise in Hemodialysis Patients

The Effects of Protein Supplementation and Resistance Exercise in Hemodialysis Patients

The objective of this study is to determine how protein supplementation, with or without exercise, affects functional capacity, strength, body composition, and physical activity in hemodialysis patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• On hemodialysis for more than 3 months, on a thrice weekly hemodialysis program;
• Adequately dialyzed (Kt/V > 1.4).
• Age > 18 years old.
• Properly functioning AV Graft

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients unable to perform exercise due to cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, etc.
• Pregnant women.
• Severe unstable underlying disease besides commonly associated with ESRD. Cardiac patients that are stable will be included.
• Patients hospitalized within the last month prior to the study.
• Patients will not perform the MRI if contraindication as determined using the VUMC MRI Procedure Screening Form (attached) or prior claustrophobic reaction in an MRI scanner.