Kidney disease, gout and diabetes are three unique conditions. You may develop one, some or all of these health problems, although many people only have one of the three. According to the American Diabetes Association, if you have diabetes, you may have a greater likelihood of developing kidney disease -- a condition in which your kidneys lose their ability to filter waste material. Some dietary supplements may be safe and effective in treating these three conditions. Ask your physician about the risks and limitations of dietary supplements if you have any of these conditions.
Kidney Disease Supplements
Kidney disease may respond to some dietary supplements, although further scientific evidence is necessary to support the use of these supplements for this purpose. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, grape seed extract, EPA, L-carnitine, zinc and horsetail have been used to alleviate symptoms of kidney disease. Other beneficial supplements for this condition may include lecithin, L-arginine, L-methionine, vitamin B-6, goldenrod, red clover and nettle.
Gout Supplements
Numerous dietary supplements have been used to treat gout -- a type of arthritis that manifests when uric acid accumulates in your joints, causing joint pain or discomfort. Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., a naturopathic physician and author of "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine," states that cherries, devil's claw, niacin, quercetin, vitamin C, folic acid, bromelain, vitamin E and eicosapentaenoic acid may be helpful supplements for those with gout. A larger body of scientific research is required to determine the true effectiveness of these supplements.
Diabetes Supplements
Dietary supplements have long been used to treat diabetes, although further scientific scrutiny may be required to validate the use of these supplements in treating this chronic condition. According to Dr. Russell B. Marz, a naturopathic doctor and author of "Medical Nutrition From Marz," some of the most helpful supplements to alleviate symptoms of diabetes include brewer's yeast, vitamin C, garlic, vitamin D, fenugreek, quercetin, magnesium, zinc and European blueberry. Chromium, vanadium and pycnogenol may also be helpful.
Additional Information
Kidney disease, gout and diabetes are all conditions that require management by a qualified health care professional. If you are diagnosed with any or all of these conditions, review all possible treatment options, including complementary alternative treatments such as dietary supplementation. Dietary supplements, though usually safe and effective, are not without their own risks. Talk with your doctor about appropriate dosage, potential side effects and possible drug interactions before using supplements to treat your ailments.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Kidney Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herbs and Supplements for Kidney Disease
- "The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph Pizzorno; 2002
- "Medical Nutrition From Marz"; Russell B. Marz, N.D., M.Ac.O.M.; 2002
