For which condition is a high-protein diet contraindicated in older adults?

A high-protein diet is contraindicated in chronic kidney disease (CKD) for older adults because such diets can exacerbate the progression of kidney damage. In individuals with CKD, the kidneys are already compromised in their ability to filter waste products and excess protein. When protein is consumed in high amounts, it leads to the production of more nitrogenous waste, which the kidneys must filter. This added burden can worsen kidney function and increase complications associated with the disease, such as fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, and metabolic acidosis. Therefore, managing protein intake is crucial in preserving kidney function and slowing disease progression in older adults with CKD.

In conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension, while diet management is important and may require specific recommendations, they do not present the same level of direct contraindication regarding high-protein intake as chronic kidney disease does.