Is intermittent fasting safe for beginning stage 2 CKD?

[ckd50ishfemale]

Online research is a bit confusing…

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

yes and no.... prolonged fasting can affect glucose levels so if you are a diabetic, check with your doctor. I am have diabetes and Stage 4 CKD. After checking with my nephrologist, another doc and a dietician, I intermittent fast. I was doing 18 hours. That was too long they decided so I switched to 14. Some days a bit more, some days a bit less. Does it help.... to be honest, I do not know because there are so many factors with diet that impact the kidneys. At first my GFR went up 2 points but then two months later came back down. . It is crucial that no matter the time frame that you keep hydrated. Also important that the first meal you eat is not all carbs or high sugar as that will spike your glucose, which is very hard on the kidneys.

I asked about the 2 days on, one day off fasting and both said too hard on my kidneys for the level I am at. But at stage 2, it might be fine. Check with your docs first.

My question is why are your fasting? What is the goal your are trying to reach. If its weight loss, ..... I do not think it really helps. Maybe at first, but then they body gets used to it.

[ckd50ishfemale in reply to Bassetmommer]

Thanks for your prompt and thorough response. I neglected to say that I’m a T2 Diabetic. Weight wise, losing 30 pounds would be beneficial for the neuropathy and osteoarthritis in my feet. My A1C has been in the 5 range for the last couple years. Too young for all this… My elderly parents walk better than I do! Thank you, I’ll definitely talk to my doctors before starting any fasting. At this point, I’m drinking a lot of water and watching portions and carb intake. It seems to be working slowly. Best wishes and enjoy the rest of your summer!

[Hidden]

IF information is confusing. Some research says it's good and others not so good. Your best bet is to know the cause of your CKD and get a professional opinion from your nephrologist.There is no one way for everyone with CKD.

[ckd50ishfemale in reply to Hidden]

Thank you. I’ll definitely ask my nephrologist. Stay well and enjoy your summer.

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador in reply to Hidden]

I agree Mr K, that no one diet/answer for all. Based on bloodwork results my Doctor gave me appropriate diet. It would not work for all with CKD. I did lose about 20 lbs and staying at that weight.

[Marvin8]

There isn't even a consensus on the definition of what "intermittent fasting" is let alone assuming that your nephrologist is up to snuff on it. I'd do a lot more research on your own, then enjoy a game of "stump the nephrologist" at your next appointment. Chances are 90% that your nephrologist won't know as much as you do on the subject. Good luck.

[ckd50ishfemale in reply to Marvin8]

You’re right about consensus. I’m leaning toward working with a dietitian bc the research is confusing. Stay well and enjoy your summer

[Hidden]

I intermittent fast everyday at a 20/4. Have been doing this for two years now ..Occasionally I do a prolonged fast of 44 hours...It controls my weight and keeps my glucose level at 5.0. I'm 76 years old and walk two hours every morning.. I'm 6'2 at 160 lbs and at my latest bloodwork my GFR was at 60..According to my doctor I have stage 3 CKD over the last 3 years. GFR lowest at 40. Since going plant based about 4 months ago with NO animal protein and dairy my GFR has taken off from the low of 40 to 60..My creatinine has dropped from 1.64 to 1.17, my BUN from 33 to 18...My ACR is normal, no protein in my blood and all my markers are in the normal range. So I expect my GFR will continue to rise following my way of eating. I've done most of my research regarding CKD alone.. According to my doctor it wasn't a problem that I need to worry about, only something to monitor... Some people tell me I must of had Acute Kidney Injury, but my doctor has it labeled as CKD.. I'm not telling anyone to intermittent fast, but for me it has worked wonders for my overall health

[ckd50ishfemale]

That’s awesome news… good for you! My diet’s pretty healthy overall since my youngest can’t have gluten or dairy. We do eat meat though (while limiting the red and reducing the portions). Best wishes for continued success! Enjoy the rest of your summer

[Darlenia]

Pick any diet and eating pattern - with an eye towards reducing your intake of sugars and carbs - and run with it unabashedly. I have friends who stopped the deadly consequences of Diabetes T2 via diet (Keto, Nutrisystems, and so on) or from stomach reduction surgery, or via intermittent fasting, and more. All those that were successful were completely committed to their selection and approach. Diabetes not only takes out the blood vessels inside your kidneys, but also affects those in your eyes, limbs, etc. So, if you drop the weight, your entire body will reward you in spades. You go, girl!