Polycystic kidney disease--PKD--is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of multiple cysts in the kidneys. The kidneys filter wastes from the blood and play a role in regulating blood pressure and secreting hormones. Cysts are filled with fluid and can enlarge the kidneys, causing poor kidney function. PKD is the fourth leading cause of kidney failure in the United States.
Types of PKD
There are two major types of PKD. Autosomal dominant PKD is the most common inherited form, occurring in about 90 percent of all cases, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK. Most people do not experience symptoms until they are between the ages of 30 and 40. Autosomal recessive PKD, which is very rare, displays symptoms very early in life, even in the womb.
Treatment
As of 2011, there is no known cure or prevention for PKD. Instead, the focus is on minimizing complications caused by PKD, such as high blood pressure. The National Kidney Foundation suggests management of conditions that can lead to kidney failure and the need for dialysis. Patients with PKD often have high blood pressure and should work with their health care provider on blood pressure management, including medication and a low-salt diet. Kidney and bladder infections are more common in those with PKD and should be treated promptly. An overall healthy lifestyle including proper physical exercise, weight control and not smoking is recommended.
Diet Guidelines
Diets that are high in sodium and protein and low in water consumption hasten the decline of kidney function in patients with PKD. Caffeine and highly acidic diets should also be avoided. If you cannot give up meat, limit yourself to 3 oz. a week of non-oily fish, lamb or game birds. The worst meat choices are poultry, which should be avoided if you have liver cysts, pork, beef and ground meats. A study in mice with PKD showed that a high-protein meal causes a major decline in kidney function. An alkaline diet based on plant foods can help minimize the effects of an acidic diet.
Dairy Guidelines
Dairy products increase the kidneys' workload and cause dehydration. Most cheese and ice cream contains added salt, which increases blood pressure. Cheddar, Parmesan and Romano cheeses should be avoided. Goat cheese, Swiss cheese, cottage cheese and blue cheese are better choices. Cheese should be limited to 1 oz. weekly. If you also eat meat, cheese should take the place of one serving of meat for that day.
Alkaline Foods
An alkaline diet has been shown to lower cyst growth in animal research studies. Alkaline foods are plant-based fruits and vegetables and should be eaten fresh, preferably organic or locally grown. Some of the best alkaline foods include apples, kiwi, mango, melons, watermelon and bananas. Among the best vegetables are cabbage, spinach, greens, turnip greens, Swiss chard and romaine lettuce. Breads and grains for an alkaline diet include corn tortillas, sesame rye crackers, quinoa, millet and breads that are sprouted such as Manna and Essene.
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