Energy and Protein Boosters for Dialysis Patients 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice or diagnosis from a physician.

Are you eating enough to have a good nutritional status? Dialysis patients often experience short- or long-term appetite problems that interfere with food intake, causing them to feel tired and sluggish.

Your dietitian may recommend an energy or protein supplement when your protein intake is low. Supplement recommendations are based on your nutritional needs and preferences, and the nutrient composition of the product. Your dietitian may have samples for you to try so you can select the product or flavor you like best. Some supplements are available at your local pharmacy or grocery store, and others are available through mail order. Prices vary so shop around and compare to get the best deal.

Check out some energy and protein supplements available in the charts below. These lists do not include all acceptable products, so ask your dietitian for additional recommendations.

Liquid renal supplements

Liquid supplements made specifically for dialysis patients are high in calories and protein, and low in sodium, potassium and phosphorus. An 8-ounce portion may be used as a meal replacement or as a supplement to the meals you eat. These supplements can also be used for an on-the-go meal on dialysis days or when you’re too busy to prepare a meal.

Product Disclaimer: DaVita is not affiliated with and does not endorse any particular brand of product on the following lists.

Re/Gen (4- and 6-ounce cartons)

Flavor: Regular or sugar-free strawberry or vanilla
Calories: 230-375
Protein: 10-14 g
Sodium: 20-188 mg
Potassium: 23-30 mg
Phosphorus: 45-90 mg

Protein supplements for the dialysis diet

If you need extra protein without the high calories, there are several protein products available. Single-ounce liquid protein products pack lots of protein in one gulp. Protein powders must be mixed with moist food or liquids. Those made from egg whites or whey protein are usually lower in potassium and phosphorus than soy-based protein powders.

EggPro powder (2 tablespoons)

Flavor: Orange, grape or lemonade
Calories: 70
Protein: 16 g
Sodium: 30 mg
Potassium: 10 mg
Phosphorus: <10 mg

LiquiCel, 1 ounce

Calories: 90
Protein: 16 g
Sodium: 30 mg
Potassium: 10 mg
Phosphorus: 10 mg

Pro-Stat, 1 ounce

Flavor: Grape, tangerine or punch
Calories: 72-81
Protein: 15 g
Sodium: 15 mg
Potassium: 18 mg
Phosphorus: <7 mg

Proteinex Liquid

Calories: 60
Protein: 15-18 g
Sodium: 20 mg
Potassium: 15 mg
Phosphorus: <10 mg

Pure Protein Whey Powder (1 scoop, 33 g)

Flavor: Vanilla or chocolate
Calories: 130
Protein: 23 g
Sodium: 55 mg
Potassium: 160-220 mg
Phosphorus: 108 mg

Pre-Protein Liquid Predigested Protein (1 fluid ounce)

Flavor: Grape, mango, peach and cherry
Calories: 80
Protein: 20 g
Sodium: <16 mg
Potassium: 5 mg
Phosphorus: 10 mg

Bar supplements for dialysis patients