contradictory info regarding ckd diet and Ayurveda

[hazzaz]

Hi Guys,

My last two GFR readings came as 59 and 58 within last two months. But I seem to be getting a lot of contradictory information regarding CKD diet. Is cooked kidney beans actually bad or good for CKD patients? Is whole meal bread better or is white bread better? Brown rice or white rice? This link seem to suggest amount matters more than what we are eating niddk.nih.gov/health-inform... . After my GP suggested dietician only after a lot of tests, I got an appointment end of next month but what should I do now?

Recently I have found some Ayurveda natural medicines which seem to have good reviews in the net, tried majun falasfa and it seem to help my problem with urination. I have bought a urine self testing kit from amazon for checking creatinine as without GP recommendation I cant do tests and have no way to know if these Ayurveda medicines have any effect or not. Have you guys tried any Ayurveda?

[Julesboz]

Hi here, I don’t know anything about the medication you mention but with a GFR of 58/59 it’s unlikely that you’ll need to follow a very restrictive diet (depending on the cause of your CKD and your blood readings). Please be very wary of following ‘kidney friendly’ internet diets which might tell you to do things like avoid potassium rich foods, when you may in fact be low in potassium. Everyone has different needs. The general guidelines for everyone with mild CKD are avoid salt, fizzy drinks, and processed foods. Reduce red meat, dairy, sugar and alcohol. Eat plenty of whole fresh natural foods, including lots of veg, and drink lots of water. And avoid any medication that is bad for the kidneys like NSAIDs. Following this advice, I’ve managed to increase my GFR. I would advise not taking any drastic steps until you’ve seen a dietician who will be able to advise you and will probably reassure you.

[Bet117 in reply to Julesboz]

Agreed. You are correct, Julesbox.

Moderation as we do not need electrolyte deficiencies.

Hazz, watching labs will be the key to how much of certain foods will be best.

1200-2000mg of sodium is usually recommended and avoiding red meats as well as processed foods as cold cuts, bacon, etc.

I watch sodium despite bouts with testing low sodium. My nephrologist suggested a very small amount of Gatorade in the morning which has corrected the problem.

Each patient is different; best bet is to speak to your doctor and dietician as to how much and what meets your needs.

[Bassetmommer]

Hi Hazzaz,

Be careful with supplements, Ayurveda medicines or anything promising a cure. I always speak to my doctor before I take anything. I had a doctor who understood Ayurveda medicines and he was leery of them because they are often not regulated.