Dietary Intake : I have been adjusting intake... - Kidney Disease

Kidney Disease

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Dietary Intake

Dana66CKD profile image
11 Replies

I have been adjusting intake and had to modify based on how I'm feeling, not just labs. Although stage 2; 81 eGFR, I don't seem to tolerate >12 grams protein/meal, 3X/day, so added 8 g snack for my 122 lbs or recommended 44 g protein/day. Before this latest dietary modification, was eating strict plant-based diet 3 meals/12g protein. (What I've been tolerating) without eliciting symptoms from CKD/CKF. My glute's started burning, couldn't sit or lay in bed on one side without feeling discomfort. I've had pressure ulcers before (decubitus ulcer) on butt, hip, so I know the sign. 36 g wasn't enough protein intake so added snack to make up difference. Next day, not so much discomfort, but I think too soon to tell. Muscle wasting is no joke, but if can't tolerate recommded intake each meal, it's a rock & hard place.

Will post again w/end result .

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Dana66CKD profile image
Dana66CKD
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11 Replies
orangecity41 profile image
orangecity41NKF Ambassador

Yes muscle wasting is an issue as we age. I am careful I get the maximum protein in my diet for example. Maybe a dietitian can help with modifying your diet and/or getting a menu.

Dana66CKD profile image
Dana66CKD in reply toorangecity41

I have seen a "Renal" dietitian. She reviewed my labs at last year's appointment. I was eating 16g protein /meal plant based only, but though EGFR @ 81, not tolerating more than 12g/meal, so trying to eat 4 meals; 3x12g, 1x8g for total 44g/day. Added egg whites back to diet too.

Amyngil profile image
Amyngil

Hi Dana,

You mentioned you had been plant based- has that changed for you? I am vegan- plant based and it was recommended to me that I aim for 15 proteins per meal. I know everyone is different but I was wondering if you have also beed told about there being a difference in absorption with meat vs plant protein? Was your eGFR better when you were plant based? . Figuring this stuff out is hard work. Best of luck to you. Amy

Dana66CKD profile image
Dana66CKD in reply toAmyngil

Yes EGFR has been better with plant-based diet. When I started last year April, weight #163 lbs @ barely 4'11". Now weigh 120-124# so calculated protein for stage 2 is .8grams/kg weight or 14.78g/meal X3. Not tolerating 14g/meal. My ckd symptoms show up, so reduced to 11g x 4 meals. I don't want to lose anymore, especially muscle mass.

Amyngil profile image
Amyngil in reply toDana66CKD

have you considered asking to be referred to PT? Just for muscle building retention? Its hard to do, I understand. I am at 98 lbs I used to be 120-125. 11x4 meals sounds like a good idea - I might try that- thanks for sharing! My dietitian wants me to do 15per meal then a 5 gram snack. I often don’t feel well after eating too. Oh, I am also stage 2.

Dana66CKD profile image
Dana66CKD

Not yet thought about P.T. but it's a good idea. Moderate to light exercise recommended, so have been trying to walk 3-4 days/week, 45 minutes. Weather interferes and I don't have treadmill, but Spring is coming 👏So sorry you are also having GI issues.

I have added back egg whites and will add fish too. Trying 80/20, plant-based/animal protein dietary change. Albumin low, so need to do something to stop muscle wasting.

Other persons on this forum have said they're doing 80/20, it's worth a try to see if my problem improves.🙏

Ladyprudence profile image
Ladyprudence

Been following this conversation and have a couple of questions if you don't mind: (1)what is the difference between vegan based and plant based diets, and (2) are many of you following an exercise regimen? I walk or stationary bike 30-40 minutes a day, which my doc likes, and I do stretches and balance exercises some days, which make me feel more steady on my feet.

As an aside, about 2 hours after eating last night my glucose level was 127, which I know is high. I waited another hour and my level was 90. Quite a difference; does this seem reasonable? Thanks to all of you for your help.

Dana66CKD profile image
Dana66CKD in reply toLadyprudence

Your blood sugar level looks great, however, I am not diabetic, but am retired RN, so have experience with patients. Many other's on this forum can give you lots more info.Vegans, I believe, do not consume ANY animal protein or food derived from animal products (poultry, including eggs, fish, meat, fowl, dairy). All plant based foods only.

I eat avocado oil butter (spread) and many vegan foods but I'm not a vegan. I like the vegan foods that can add calories without adding additional protein to my diet so I don't exceed required intake for my needs. And your exercise routine sounds great. Keep up the good work!🙂

Hope you can find all info you seek. Good luck.

Ladyprudence profile image
Ladyprudence

I appreciate that, Dana. I am trying hard, but don't want to starve myself or deprive myself of essential minerals. (?) I just slipped in the info about diabetes, but probably should stick to kidney based discussions from now on. Thanks for your explanation.

Dana66CKD profile image
Dana66CKD

All the NKF ambassadors and other ckd patient's are very helpful. If you have any info you'd like to share, or questions, you'll most likely receive a quick response. I would like to try yoga also. I understand it's very good for strength, agility, etc. I have balance issues due to partial amputation of both feet, but I walk 3 days week so far, mostly without my cane 😁

kellyscats1 profile image
kellyscats1 in reply toDana66CKD

Such a wonderful positive attitude you have.. thanks so very much

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