the onset of kidney failure is a likely culprit. People with kidney disease who are not on dialysis are advised to avoid consumption of protein if possible, as consuming too much accelerates the condition and can lead to death. Most of the problems stem from the accumulation of unfiltered toxins and wastes from protein metabolism. Kidney function naturally declines with age due to the gradual loss of nephrons (filters) in the kidney. Common causes of chronic kidney disease include diabetes, heart disease, long term untreated high blood pressure, as well as abuse of analgesics like ibuprofen, aspirin, and paracetamol. Kidney disease like the polycystic kidney disease can be genetic in nature and progress as the individual ages. Diagnosis Under normal conditions in the body, ammonia, urea, uric acid, and creatinine are produced by protein metabolism and excreted through the kidney as urine. When these by-products cannot be excreted properly from the body they will accumulate and become highly toxic. Protein consumption is a major source of these waste products. An accumulation of these waste products can occur in people with kidney insufficiency who eat a diet rich in protein and therefore can not excrete the waste properly. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood. Increased levels of urea in the blood (uremia) is an indicator for poor elimination of urea from the body usually due to kidney damage. Increased BUN levels can be caused by kidney diseases, kidney stones, congestive heart failure, fever, and gastrointestinal bleedings. BUN levels can also be elevated in pregnant people and people whose diet consists mainly of protein. Increased creatinine levels in the blood can also be a sign of kidney damage and inability to excrete protein waste by-products properly. A confirmation of kidney disease or kidney failure is often obtained by performing a blood test which measures the concentration of creatinine and urea (blood urea nitrogen). A creatinine blood test and BUN test are usually performed together along with other blood panels for diagnosis. Treatment Treatment options for protein toxicity can include renal replacement therapies like hemodialysis and hemofiltration. Lifestyle modifications like a diet low in protein, decreased sodium intake, and exercise can also be in incorporated as part of a treatment plan. Medications may also be prescribed depending on symptoms. Common medications prescribed for kidney diseases include hypertension medications like angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and