Hello

[sourdougher]

I was diagnosed with CKD at my "Welcome to Medicare" visit. I was devastated and devoured what I could from the internet since my doctor had little information or concern. I was afraid to eat so many things because they seemed toxic to my condition. I quickly lost 20 lbs. and continue to be very thin. This was not healthy or desirable since I also have osteopenia which is the thinning of the bones and the recommendation for that is to eat plenty of protein. Eating remains a struggle because I live with people who eat everything. Especially during the holidays, it isn't easy because I like to please my family by making all the traditional foods and treats.

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador]

Did the Doctor advise you what level of CKD you have. I was diagnosed at CKD level 3b. My Primary Doctor put me on appropriate CKD diet based also on blood levels of protein, phosphorus, potassium and sodium. The diet has helped me. I was 76 at the time diagnosed.

Here is a link to information on Chronic Kidney Disease and eGFR levels

kidney.org/professionals/gf...

[ILMA54]

One of the issues I struggled with before my transplant was low albumin levels (< 3.4 g/dL). Therefore, my doctor had me eat 1 g protein/kg body weight, which is more than the recommended protein level (0.6 g/kg body weight). I was at Stage 5 when I did this, and my GFR did not suffer.

Given your osteopenia, I would check with a nephrologist about handling this. From my 28-year journey from diagnosis to transplant, the things that had the most significant impact on kidney function were keeping my blood pressure under control and maintaining a healthy body weight. I did not have diabetes, did not smoke, and did not undergo dialysis before my transplant.

I hope that helps.

[Soldiermom]

I learned alot from Instagram account "plantbased.kidneys" check her out. She is a nurse for a nephrologist & they both also do podcasts together giving great information! All the best!!

[Darlenia]

Since none of us here are doctors, we can only speak to our experiences. But, generally speaking, all diet changes should be monitored by a medical professional who will take your labs regularly to ensure things stay in the normal range. You can start this by double-checking the situation yourself - simply check your labs and see what items are flagged including weight and blood pressure. Then set an appointment with your doctor and ask for diet recommendations, if any, and monitoring. My husband's primary doctor was instrumental in guiding/watching him. (Others may use a registered dietitian, a nephrologist, etc.) Often, those in early stages won't need to do anything at all if blood pressure, weight, etc. and so forth are also in the normal range. Your body is a complex structure - and every organ matters and has its own requirements. Since many diets, especially the renal diet, manipulate electrolytes, the outcomes must be carefully monitored. (Lowering certain electrolytes too much, for example, can lead to cardiac problems.) Also, keep in mind that the term, CKD, is simply an umbrella term covering a large number conditions - it's like saying you have cancer - specifics on your particular condition determines the approach. So, ask for the "reason" for the decline. Only your doctor can tell you this and sometimes it can be mere age. Please note that there is controversy regarding the over diagnosis of CKD in the senior population. Yes, as we age, all our organs slowly lose function. Some tests don't adequately reflect the normality of that. See healio.com/news/primary-car... You're asking good questions and that's great. I'm sure you'll have answers soon and that will give you direction and peace.