EXPERIMENTAL RENAL INSUFFICIENCY THE EFFECTS OF HIGH PROTEIN DIET IN THE PRESENCE OF LOW RENAL FUNCTION ON THE KIDNEYS, AORTA AND LIVER; CHANGES IN THE BLOOD PRESSURE AND CONCENTRATION OF BLOOD METABOLITES
It has long been held, apparently largely on theoretical considerations, that a chronic nephritis with nitrogen retention is benefited by a low protein diet. Hugh McLean1 explains that the theory originated in a misconception of protein metabolism. He states (1924) that there is no proof that protein food is in any way injurious to the kidneys. He admits that a high concentration of nitrogen metabolites may be injurious and that in advanced cases of nephritis in which this condition is present it may be of value to limit the proteins. Nevertheless, the therapy of protein limitation has found widespread acceptance in the treatment of Bright's disease and is extensively used.2 Newburgh and Clarkson3 report experimental studies in the feeding of a high protein diet to rabbits. They feel that they have produced a very definite renal injury by feeding a diet containing 36 per cent protein over a period of