Renal Protein Shake

My renal dietician came by briefly during dialysis to ask about my weight loss. The nephrologist lowered my dry weight again to 80.5 kg, and I left dialysis at 80.1 kg. My ankles are definitely a bit thinner, even after sitting, and my ending blood pressure was in range without taking the extra NIFEdipine pill. Maybe the “new” me does only weigh 175 pounds.

I told the nutritionist that I was experiencing diarrhea about half the time after drinking a protein shake, whether it’s Nepro (renal) or other brands. She said that this happens to other patients too, and to drink it more slowly. She also mentioned a second renal protein shake brand call Novasource from Nestlé. Like Nepro, there are three flavors: Vanilla, Strawberry, and Cafe Mocha. I also got two sample shakes and a discount order form from her.

Let’s compare Novasource Strawberry and Nepro Mixed Berry:

The two nutritional information charts had different formats and order so I chose the ones that I usually list in random order. The two products look fairly similar; both have low potassium and phosphorus compared to regular, non-renal protein shakes. I hope the Novasource shakes taste better. I’ve only really had the Mixed Berry Nepro, and have gotten to dislike the flavor somewhat. I used to drink them at room temperature but a lot of people online have suggested drinking it cold. It’s better cold, but the chalky aftertaste is still there.

The list price for Novasource on their website is $108 for a case of 27. The cheapest price I found on Amazon is ~$90 for 27 including shipping. The nutritionist gave me an order form directly from Nestlé that has each case for $64. Similarly, Nepro usually sells for $92 for a case of 24 but the discount price is $57. Question is why anyone would buy and drink these shakes if they’re not on dialysis?