We all use vitamins and nutritional supplements to stay healthy and gain strength. You can easily buy these from the pharmacy or see them in commercials on TV. But have you ever thought about how these things affect our kidneys ? Especially if you have any kidney problems, you have to think twice about this. Simply put, taking these things for everyone else can be dangerous.
Why is nutrition so important for kidney patients?
Our bodies need nutrients to function properly. We need these nutrients for everything from the energy we need to function throughout the day, to the growth of muscles and tissues, to the immunity we need to fight disease. Most people get these essential nutrients from the food they eat every day.
However, if someone has a condition like Chronic Kidney Disease ( CKD ), the story is a little different. At times like these, the body may not be able to properly absorb nutrients from the food we eat. Also, kidney patients have to limit certain foods (such as foods high in potassium and phosphorus). So to avoid nutritional deficiencies caused by this, doctors sometimes recommend special nutritional supplements.
The important thing is that this kidney disease is more common in society than we think. Many people do not even know that they have this disease. Therefore, some of the medications, painkillers , and even some nutritional supplements we use can adversely affect the functioning of the kidneys.
What supplements can be recommended for kidney patients?
There are nutritional supplements specially formulated for kidney patients. These are called "renal vitamins ". You usually can't buy these over the counter at the pharmacy. You need to get these with a prescription from a doctor. Because the doctor will give you these after checking your blood reports and determining exactly what nutrients your body needs and what nutrients it doesn't. This is to prevent you from taking in unnecessary nutrients that could further damage your kidneys.
In general, here are some nutritional supplements that kidney patients may need. But again, don't use any of these without consulting your doctor.
| Nutritional supplement | What to know |
|---|---|
| B Complex Vitamins | This includes vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, and folic acid. Dialysis patients may need these. |
| Vitamin C | Although it can be recommended in small doses, taking too much can lead to kidney stones. Therefore, medical advice is essential. |
| Iron | Iron is given in the form of pills or injections for anemia caused by kidney disease. This should also be taken only if recommended by a doctor. |
| Vitamin D and Calcium | These are necessary for bone health and to control blood phosphorus levels. But you have to be very careful about the dosage. |
If you have kidney disease, don't take these!
There are some nutritional supplements that, if taken by someone with kidney disease, can worsen the condition. You should be especially careful with herbal supplements . Not everything that says 'natural' or 'ayurvedic' is safe.
Below are some of the supplements you should avoid if you have kidney disease.
| Avoid! Supplements that can be harmful to the kidneys | |
|---|---|
| Creatine | People who exercise often take it to build muscle. This puts an extra burden on the kidneys. |
| Chromium | Taking too much can damage the kidneys. |
| Licorice | It can raise blood pressure and affect the kidneys. |
| Cranberry | Although it is known to be good for urinary tract infections, its high oxalate content can lead to kidney stones. |
| Other herbal products | Completely avoid herbal supplements that come under various names, such as Cat's claw, Yohimbe, Thunder god vine, etc. Many of these can be toxic to the kidneys. |
The importance of talking to your doctor
This is something we've said repeatedly throughout this article. Before using any additional nutritional supplements, talk to your doctor. This is very important.
Imagine, let's say your friend used a certain vitamin and got good results. But it may not be suitable for you. Because your health condition, other medications you take, and your kidney function are completely different from that friend.
Your doctor will examine you, and if necessary, perform a urine test and blood test, to determine whether you really need any supplements, and if so, what and how much.
Many people forget to tell their doctor about the vitamins and herbal products they are taking. That is a big mistake. Inform your doctor about every little thing you are taking. Then you can avoid unnecessary risks.
Finally, there are also varying opinions on whether these supplements actually work. While they may be helpful for some people, there is still no supplement that has been proven to significantly improve kidney function. The best thing to do is to follow a balanced diet and follow your doctor's advice.
Take-Home Message
- If you have kidney disease or suspect you have it, never take vitamins or other nutritional supplements without medical advice .
- Don't assume that something is safe just because it says "natural" or "herbal." Some herbal products can be very harmful to the kidneys.
- If you are already using any nutritional supplements, it is imperative to inform your doctor about it.
- Although there are special supplements (renal vitamins) for kidney patients, they should only be taken on medical advice.
- The best nutrition you need is from a balanced diet. For this, consult your doctor or a nutritionist he recommends.
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