Nephrotic syndrome is a type of kidney disease that can cause symptoms such as swelling of your arms and legs, as well as weight gain related to fluid retention. There are many causes of nephrotic syndrome including diabetes, lupus, heart conditions and many forms of kidney disease. You can help reduce the symptoms of nephrotic syndrome by adhering to a diet that improves the function of your kidneys and reduces the leakage of fluid into your tissues.
Background
Nephrotic syndrome occurs when there is damage to the part of the kidney that normally filters waste. Damage to this system allows protein to escape from your bloodstream into your urine. The reduction of protein in your bloodstream results in swelling, or edema of your tissues. You may also experience high cholesterol, foamy urine and weight gain. Your physician can diagnose nephrotic syndrome through a test that measures the amount of protein in your urine.
Low Salt
Decreasing your salt intake is an excellent way to help decrease your symptoms of swelling related to nephrotic syndrome. Lowering the amount of salt in your bloodstream makes it more difficult for fluid to travel to your tissues, thus improving swelling. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, you should limit sodium to 3 g per day. Processed foods, such as soups and snack foods, are often high in sodium, so avoiding these can help you stay within your limit. You should avoid adding any table salt to your food as 1 tsp. of table salt contains 2,300 milligrams of sodium.
Reducing Cholesterol
Nephrotic syndrome causes your levels of protein to fall, which causes your liver to produce more albumin, a type of protein, in compensation. When your liver produces albumin, it also produces cholesterol and triglycerides. Since high levels of cholesterol increase your risk of heart disease, reducing your dietary cholesterol is important in controlling this risk. You should avoid concentrated sources of cholesterol such as organ meats, egg yolks and whole milk products. Avoiding foods high in saturated fat, such as red meat and processed foods, can also help lower your cholesterol.
Considerations
In addition to utilizing diet to control symptoms of nephrotic syndrome, treating the underlying kidney condition can also help reduce symptoms. Since many different conditions can cause nephrotic syndrome, the specific treatment depends on your particular situation. Medications known as diuretics can act in conjunction with dietary changes to improve the tissue swelling. Your physician my also prescribe cholesterol-reducing medications if your blood levels of cholesterol are too high despite dietary modifications.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicians; Nephrotic Syndrome in Adults: Diagnosis and Management; Nov. 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Nephrotic Syndrome; Nov. 25, 2009
- National Kidney Foundation: Nephrotic Syndrome
- Cleveland Clinic; Low-Sodium Diet Guidelines; Sept. 15, 2009
- MayoClinic.com; High Cholesterol; June 24, 2010
