Impact of Providing High Protein Bar to Dialysis Patients With Low Serum Albumin

Impact of Providing High Protein Bar to Dialysis Patients With Low Serum Albumin

This study is to evaluate the impact of providing high protein supplementation in the form of a medical food bar containing 20grams of protein eath to hypoalbuminemic dialysis patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Subjects with ESRD undergoing center hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis for more than 90 days.
• 18 years of age or older.
• Must have a reasonable expectation of remaining on treatment for at least 3 months.
• Must have an average serum albumin of <3.5 g/dL over the three months prior to entry into the study.
• Must be able to understand and sign the informed consent.
• Must be willing and able to participate in nutrition interviews for determination of nutrient intake from conventional foods.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Allergy to protein, milk, nuts or wheat.
• Documented ongoing acute infection or inflammatory process including treatment with antibiotics within a two week time of study entry.
• Severe acidosis defined as pre-dialysis serum bicarbonate levels of <15 mEq/L.
• Presence of conditions that would affect normal response to repletion of protein and calories, such as gastrointestinal disorders including inflammatory bowel disease.
• Hospitalization for an infectious condition within 4 weeks prior to study entry.
• Planned surgery within the three month study period including planned kidney transplantation.