Renal Diet

[gattaca222]

I've been told by the doctor I have ckd probably due to uncontrolled high bp. I've tried lots of herbal supplements for bp, cut out carbs and sugar all to no avail. However, I've recently experienced lower back pain, bladder and bowel problems and terrific pain in my calfs when walking and just feeling exhausted all the time.

Doing some research online I think this is all down to the kidneys. So, I've ordered a renal diet book which points out the foods that are good for kidney function. Since yesterday, I've stopped dairy and red meat, eating lots of leafy greens etc.

My GP has never advised me about diet or any other doctor I've seen. I eat a pretty health diet and have always walked a lot and been very active but, not being able to walk for more than a few minutes without being in excruciating pain is a nightmare. Has anyone else had experience with these diets? I'd appreciate some feedback.

Thanks, Linda

[Happyrosie]

I have no personal information about renal disease and renal-specific diets, but I think your medical team should be guiding you more closely as to what you should be doing.

You can read the guidelines that GPs should be following on the NICE (National Institute for Clinical Evidence) website which I’ve glanced through - and I’d encourage you to do so if you haven’t already. On my quick read, it does seem that the medical profession should be guiding you as to diet. How you get them to do so, though, is another matter!

[gattaca222 in reply to Happyrosie]

I'll take a look, thanks. I'm to see a nephrologist on the 31st so, I'll ask them about diet.

[Eviedog12]

I have CKD too. Nobody has mentioned diet to me but I follow a healthy fruit, veg and lean meat system. What stage are you? I'm 3a and also have aching legs but put that down to the menopause

[gattaca222 in reply to Eviedog12]

The aching legs could be side effects of the bp meds for me and it's not just aches, it's almost unbearable pain in my calf muscles.

[katieoxo60]

On my medical records it says I have CKD3 , I also have high blood pressure amongst other medical conditions. No diet has ever been suggested and it seems disputable what diet is good even for those on Dialysis the fluid intake seems to be disputable too. I found the Kidney research charity where more up to date with info. But NICE seem to be the most up to date with what the NHS advice.

[gattaca222]

Thanks, I'll take a look at those.

[PecanSandie]

Have you had blood tests recently? I know from experience that calf pain (charley horses) can sometimes be connected to potassium levels.

[gattaca222]

Thanks, yes I discovered that today actually. I'm sure when I see the nephrologist I'll have more bloods done.