It is well known that chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients who undergo long-term dialysis face significant global public health challenges. Common adverse effects of prolonged dialysis include low blood albumin levels and worsening nutritional status, which correlate with increased morbidity and mortality rates. Malnutrition is common among patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis, occurring in 30–50% of cases. Chronic kidney disease patients also lose protein and amino acids through dialysis fluid, which may contribute to malnutrition.
Managing the diet and nutrition of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses a significant challenge for healthcare teams, nutritionists, and dietitians. One way to supplement protein intake for CKD patients is through high-protein foods, such as egg whites, which can provide them with additional protein and energy. It is common for doctors to recommend a daily consumption of 3-4 egg whites for CKD patients. However, repeatedly consuming egg whites in the same forms, such as boiled, fried, or steamed, over a prolonged period can lead to a reluctance to eat them, which can ultimately impact the effectiveness of treatment. To address this issue, it would be beneficial to have alternative products that offer CKD patients more dietary options and improve their physical and mental well-being, ultimately increasing their willingness to consume them. This aligns with current global food trends, where there is a growing demand for specialized food groups, such as immune-boosting foods, food for the elderly, and food for patients with specific illnesses.
The product “Crispy Rice with Egg White” or “Egg Bite” is a health food innovation specifically for CKD patients. It was developed in response to CKD patients becoming tired of eating egg whites in traditional forms. This product offers an alternative way of consuming egg whites that retains nutritional value while providing a more enjoyable eating experience.
Collaborating with researchers from the School of Medical Science at the University of Phayao, doctors from Phayao Hospital, and Sky Natural Food Company Limited, a clinical study was conducted on end-stage CKD patients. The study revealed that after consuming the “Crispy Rice with Egg White” product for at least 30 consecutive days, there was a significant improvement in blood protein levels among patients.
The research team aims for the “Crispy Rice with Egg White” product to serve as a safe and effective alternative food innovation, ultimately improving the quality of life for CKD patients.
By Dr. Wittawas Sajjapong and Asst. Prof. Dr. Yupa Chanwikrai
School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao
