Diet for nephrotic syndrome

Dear Ruby,

                    There is lots of information on the internet. Which is where I pinched the following from.Now a word of warning, there are lots of cranks and dangerous people about who will will guarantee a cure.  Sadly, there is no cure, consult the dietician at the hospital and don't be afraid to ask when you see the Nephrologist, if necessary, write your questions down before you go.

I was diagnosed 4 years ago and had one minor relapse last summer. You may just have to live with the condition, simple healthy diet, early nights and you will be alright. The following is American and a little extreme, but great in substance. Have a read on the computer and find your own pathway.

                                                                               Good luck and God bless, E 

Diet and Nutrition

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A healthy diet for Nephrotic Syndrome patients consists of low salt, low fat and low cholesterol, with emphasis on fruits and vegetables.

NOTE: The amount of protein and fluid a patient with Nephrotic Syndrome should have depends on the patient’s current condition, age and weight. It is very important that a nephrologist and/or a renal dietitian be consulted. This fact sheet is meant to be used as a resource and is not meant to replace medical advice. Also, this is NOT geared towards those experiencing dialysis or transplant.

Healthy Diet:

Low sodium (salt) – helps with swelling in the hands and legs

Lots of fresh fruit and vegetables – fiber such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables can help lower total and LDL cholesterol

Low fat (1% or skim) dairy products

Lean cuts of meat, less red meat, more chicken and fish

SOMETIMES fluids should be restricted, as determined by a nephrologist

SOMETIMES protein levels should be increased or decreased, as determined by a nephrologist

RARELY should potassium or phosphorous be restricted, only if kidneys are failing and as determined by a nephrologist

Sodium:

[No sodium]

Too much sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and edema

Most sodium in our diet comes from processed foods and salt

We have learned to like salt and it takes time to unlearn the preference for salt

Most people consume too much sodium on a daily basis

CLICK HERE for more information about a low sodium diet.

Printable Low Sodium Diet Guidelines (PDF)

Protein:

We need protein for overall health, muscle maintenance, and to fight infections

Research has not absolutely proved benefit of low protein diet to preserve kidney function

Goal is moderate protein intake, but consult with a nephrologist

Good sources of protein are lean meats, will trimmed poultry, eggs (limit 2 per week), fish, shellfish, beans, and nuts

How to limit fat and cholesterol:

Limit whole eggs to 2 per week, use egg substitutes or whites only

Use lean meats, well trimmed, poultry w/o skin, fish, shellfish, beans, nuts

Use healthy oils such as olive, canola, coconut, or sunflower

Limit saturated fats (dairy, animal fat) and eliminate trans fat (partially hydrogenated oils found in processed and fast food)

Helpful Links:

Nutrition and Chronic Kidney Disease – http://www.kidney.org/atoz/pdf/nutri_chronic.pdf

American Heart Association’s Nutrition Center – http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/NutritionCenter/Nutrition-Center_UCM_001188_SubHomePage.jsp

Kidseatright.com 

Low/No Sodium Shopping – HealthyHeartMarket.com

Low Sodium Cooking

http://www.kidneycommunitykitchen.ca/kkcookbook

http://www.davita.com/recipes/

http://www.kidney.org/patients/kidneykitchen/