Nutrition for Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

2014-05-20 08:37

It is common for people to have a poor appetite when they are ill. Strengthening nutrition can boost your immune system and help you fight against kidney disease. Here is some suggestion about nutrition for polycystic kidney disease (PKD).

Protein intake

For human, protein intake is necessary to maintain body-building. Every cell in the human body contains protein. But for PKD patients, they may have to limit the protein intake, because too much protein can add workload of your kidneys and accelerate the progression to kidney failure. And when you choose protein, you should choose the high quality protein such as egg white and lean meat, which relatively produces less waste than other kinds of protein. How much you can take depends on your remaining kidney function.

Sodium intake

Sodium plays a role in retaining water and controlling blood pressure. Because high blood pressure is a common symptom of PKD, you should restrict sodium intake of reducing the risk of high blood pressure. Table salt, soy sauce, cheese, bacon, snack food and so on all contain high content of sodium.

Water intake

In the early stage of PKD, there is no kidney damage. Plenty intake of water can help inhibit the growth of cysts. But with the decline of kidney function, your kidneys can not remove the excess fluid from the body, resulting in edema and then you should limit the water intake.

Potassium intake

Potassium can counteract the function of sodium to maintain fluid and blood pressure. Proper intake potassium in the early stage of PKD can help lower blood pressure. But with kidney impairment, food high in potassium such as spinach, baked potatoes, avocados and mushrooms should be limited.

The above is general guideline for PKD patients. If you would like a personalized suggestion, you can leave your basic information below, and then we can give you a reply.

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