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PKD Diet

Nov 16, 2010 | By Mandy Seay
PKD Diet
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According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, polycystic kidney disease, or PKD, is the fourth leading cause of kidney failure in the United States. Other complications from this disease include high blood pressure, growth of cysts in the liver, development of aneurysms in the brain, colon problems and chronic pain. The Mayo Clinic suggests keeping the kidneys as healthy as possible in order to prevent complications. Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight play a major role in preserving kidney health as well as managing PKD.

Diet

According to the National Kidney Foundation, no specific diet has been found at this time to prevent cysts from forming on the kidneys. However, eating a balanced diet moderate in calories, rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, that is adequate in protein and low in sodium has been shown to be beneficial for individuals with PKD.

Features

Protein should meet the dietary allowance for age unless excessive protein in the urine is present, in which case lower levels are recommended. The dietary reference intakes, or DRI, for protein can be located on the USDA Food and Nutrition Information Center website. According to the Cleveland Clinic, sodium restriction may be beneficial for lowering blood pressure, preventing kidney stones, and decreasing the development of kidney cysts. The DRI for sodium for adults is 2,300 mg a day; and is equivalent to one teaspoon of salt. Talk to a dietitian for personalized, specific calorie, protein and sodium needs.

Foods to Choose

Choose whole grains such as whole wheat breads, crackers, pastas and cereals. Load up on fruits and vegetables that are full of vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals. When considering protein sources, lean meats and vegetable proteins are preferred for individuals with PKD. Examples include cottage cheese, beef round and sirloin, chicken, Canadian bacon, fresh ham, turkey, fresh and frozen fish, low fat or fat free cheeses, beans, legumes, nuts, soy products and egg whites. Low sodium foods include fresh, frozen or canned foods without added salt, unsalted nuts, seeds, dried beans, peas, lentils and low-sodium fat-free broths and soups. When cooking, do not use the salt shaker, instead add flavor with spices, herbs, and lemon. At restaurants, request that meal be prepared without salt.

Foods to Avoid

In order to maintain a healthy weight and healthy kidneys, foods high in sodium and fat should be limited. Avoid ribs, corned beef, ground pork, pork sausage, ground lamb, fried fish, all regular cheeses, bologna, salami, Italian sausage, bratwurst and hotdogs. High sodium foods that should be eliminated or reduced include chips, pretzels, soups, prepared mixes and foods, condiments, frozen meals, fermented foods, luncheon meats, salad dressings and various cheese products. Many of these foods have lower sodium versions, but it is a good idea to check the label to be sure they are low enough.

Beverages

According to the Cleveland Clinic, dehydration may incite kidney cyst formation and therefore recommend individuals with PKD consume approximately three liters of water a day. Depending upon a person's heart, lung and kidney status, water intake may need to be adjusted.

Beverages to Avoid

According to a study published in 2001 in the "American Journal of Kidney Diseases," caffeine should be avoided by those with PKD due to possible exacerbation of high blood pressure. Additionally, the Cleveland Clinic states caffeine may interfere with the body's ability to control cyst formation.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Nov 16, 2010

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