increase GFR

I am a 43 year old mother in perfect health, 5f6 115lbs. I am trying to give a kidney to my 24 year old son. I have passed all of the tests but my most recent GFR test came back at 80 which is borderline to be a donor. I know I do not drink enough water, (1 glass a day) so I have increased that. The hospital will retest in 2-3 weeks and the results need to come back higher or they will take me off the donor list. Is there anyway to increase my GFR, I have read a glass of red wine a day? 6-8 glasses of water? I work out already 3-4 times a week.. Is there any supplements? Any help would be appreciated...

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the retest.  A GFR of 80 is borderline, but still not markedly low.  I am not aware of supplements shown to improve GFR.

I would consider a urinalysis and a 24-hr urine creatinine to further evaluat ethe kidney function.

An ultrasound can be considered to image the kidneys as well.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_