Dietary guidelines for nephrotic syndrome: Edible options and items to steer clear from
Managing Nephrotic Syndrome: A Guide to Diet and Nutrition
Nephrotic syndrome is a condition where the body leaks too much protein from the blood into the urine, known as proteinuria. For those diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, a suitable diet can help manage symptoms and ensure essential nutrients are met. Here's a breakdown of what to include and avoid in your diet.
A Kidney-Friendly Diet for Nephrotic Syndrome
A diet should generally include: - Low salt (sodium) intake to help control blood pressure and reduce fluid retention. - Rich in fiber and potassium from colorful fruits and vegetables. - Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, oats, barley, and whole wheat bread. - Lean proteins like beans, lentils, chickpeas, plain unsalted nuts and seeds, lean meats (chicken, turkey), fish (salmon, mackerel, trout), and eggs. - Avoiding excessive red meat and processed meats that are high in sodium and unhealthy fats.
Foods and drinks to avoid or limit include: - High-sodium foods like processed meats, salty snacks, and canned or packaged foods with added salt. - Cola beverages and other sodas containing phosphoric acid and added sugars, which may harm kidney function and increase risks for kidney stones and damage. - Alcohol, as it can worsen kidney problems and blood pressure control. - Foods very high in phosphorus and potassium may need monitoring depending on kidney function and blood levels, but a balanced intake of fruits and vegetables is usually encouraged.
Protein Intake and Nephrotic Syndrome
A diet high in protein can actually worsen symptoms for people with nephrotic syndrome, and a person's doctor will advise on how much protein they should aim for. Moderate protein restriction under medical supervision (about 0.6 to 0.8 g/kg body weight per day) may be recommended to reduce kidney workload while ensuring adequate nutritional needs.
Managing Cholesterol and Fat Intake
Doctors may advise reducing cholesterol and fat intake to help control blood cholesterol levels. Choosing foods that are low in fat and cholesterol may also be beneficial for people with nephrotic syndrome.
Supplements and Nephrotic Syndrome
Supplements may not directly help treat or improve symptoms of nephrotic syndrome, but people taking steroid medications for nephrotic syndrome should take vitamin D or calcium supplements due to the effects of steroids on bone health. However, some supplements, such as herbal supplements, may be harmful to the kidneys and should be avoided without consulting a doctor.
Seasoning Options
Suitable seasonings for a person with nephrotic syndrome include basil, chives, cinnamon, vinegar, fresh garlic or garlic powder, ginger, lemon juice, dry mustard, paprika, pepper, fresh onion or onion powder.
Medical Supervision
A nephrotic syndrome diet can help people with nephrotic syndrome manage their symptoms. A person's doctor may refer them to a dietitian or nutritionist to help them create a suitable eating plan. It's essential to consult healthcare providers for personalised advice and monitoring.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Nephrotic syndrome. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nephrotic-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355077 [2] National Kidney Foundation. (2021). Alcohol and kidney disease. https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/alcohol-kidney-disease [3] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Nephrotic syndrome. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/nephrotic-syndrome [4] Kidney Fund. (2021). Foods to eat and avoid with kidney disease. https://www.kidneyfund.org/kidney-disease/food-and-diet/foods-to-eat-and-avoid-with-kidney-disease [5] National Kidney Foundation. (2021). Diet and kidney disease. https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/diet-kidney-disease
- A suitable diet can aid in managing nephrotic syndrome symptoms and fulfill essential nutrients.
- Low salt intake is recommended to control blood pressure and reduce fluid retention.
- Fruits and vegetables rich in fiber and potassium should be part of a kidney-friendly diet.
- Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, barley, and whole wheat bread are beneficial for a nephrotic syndrome diet.
- Lean proteins such as beans, lentils, chickpeas, nuts, seeds, lean meats, fish, and eggs can be included.
- Excessive red and processed meats should be avoided due to unhealthy fats and high sodium content.
- High-sodium foods like processed meats, salty snacks, and canned foods should be limited.
- Cola beverages and other sodas containing phosphoric acid and added sugars should be avoided as they may harm kidney function.
- Alcohol should be limited as it can worsen kidney problems and blood pressure control.
- Foods very high in phosphorus may need monitoring, but a balanced intake of fruits and vegetables is encouraged.
- A diet high in protein may worsen nephrotic syndrome symptoms, so doctors may advise on protein intake.
- Moderate protein restriction under medical supervision may be recommended.
- Doctors may advise reducing cholesterol and fat intake to control blood cholesterol levels.
- Foods low in fat and cholesterol would be beneficial for people with nephrotic syndrome.
- People on steroid medications for nephrotic syndrome should take vitamin D or calcium supplements due to steroid effects on bone health.
- Some supplements, such as herbal supplements, may be harmful to the kidneys and should be avoided.
- Basil, chives, cinnamon, vinegar, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, dry mustard, paprika, pepper, onion, and other suitable seasonings can be used in cooking.
- Consulting healthcare providers for personalized advice and monitoring is essential.
- A nephrotic syndrome diet can help manage symptoms and should be overseen by doctors and nutritionists.
- Adhering to a low-sodium, high-fiber, and balanced protein diet can support cardiovascular health.
- The science of healthy eating can help manage chronic diseases like nephrotic syndrome.
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