low protein diet for kidney disease

[sheila6454]

Do you think a low protein diet can stabilize  a patient with stage four kidney disease?  I have had stage 4 kidney disease for almost five years.  I have maintained a creatinine level of 2.9 through diet.  I watch my potassium, under 2,000 mg & have stopped eating animal protein.  I still eat eggs & cheese but other than that no dairy.  I think it is a small price to pay to avoid a kidney transplant.  My weight is stable under this regimen after years of yo yo dieting.  If I can do it anyone can!     sheila6454  

[sheila6454]

I think stage 1 can be managed well through diet.  Vigilance! & you can avoid a horrid transplant!   I am glad your condition was caught early!

[jen1108m]

Im on a similar diet. I'm diagnosed with IGA nephropathy on kidneys so the same type of diet I follow.. I feel the same way about not having  transplant. I prefer to change my diet .doctor told me I'm stage 1 because kidney function is still good...but I think low protein diet can stabilize it..

[sheila6454]

Thank you Dr Sharma     I do take iron & vit D supplements.  My Calcium is usually on the high side of normal.  I would like to think I can postpone a kidney transplant indefinitely, my numbers are very stable.  My doctors are amazed at my progress.

[Arti Sharma, M.D.]

Hello and hope you are doing well.
In patients with chronic kidney disease you need to limit fluids, eat a low-protein diet, restricting salt, potassium, phosphorous, and other electrolytes and at the same time get sufficient calories. Few dietitians specialize in kidney diets. Your dietitian can help you create a diet to fit your needs. There have been few studies which found that low protein diets can delay end‐stage kidney disease. I would advise you to continue with your diet and consult a dietician for more details. You may need calcium supplements to prevent bone disease and vitamin D to maintain calcium balance. Iron supplements may be needed if there is anemia. Do talk to your doctor before making any dietary changes. Keep me posted.
Best luck and regards!