For your kidneys to stay in the best condition possible, certain vitamins are essential. These vitamins are vitamin A, D, E, K, C, niacin, folic acid, B-complex vitamins, B5, and biotin. People with chronic kidney disorders can also take these vitamins to improve their health.
People with CKD have greater requirements for some water soluble vitamins. Special renal vitamins are usually prescribed to provide extra water soluble vitamins needed. Renal vitamins contain vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, folic acid, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin and a small dose of vitamin C.
Vitamins that are typically recommended for CKD patients:
B1, B2, B6, B 12, folic acid, niacin, pantothenic acid, and biotin, as well as some vitamin C, are essential vitamins for people with CKD. Vitamin C may be suggested in low doses as large doses can cause a buildup of oxalate.
A healthy diet and lifestyle combined with appropriate medications for symptom control is the most common treatment for kidney disease in its early stages. Renal replacement therapy, such as dialysis or a kidney transplant, is reserved for end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).
It is possible to slow the progression of kidney disease by taking good care of yourself by following a healthy diet and exercising. However, for some people, their kidney disease gets worse despite their best efforts at a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know the cause of your kidney disease.
1. Vitamin D. The kidneys are responsible for converting vitamin D into active metabolites and are essential for absorbing calcium and phosphorus. Those suffering from chronic kidney disease may have low vitamin D levels primarily because damaged kidneys have difficulty converting vitamin D into its active form.
The calcium antagonistic effect of magnesium is also important for reducing the risk of kidney stones, and silent kidney stones significantly increase the risk of kidney failure. As low magnesium intake will reduce the urinary magnesium concentration, the beneficial effect of magnesium on stone formation is hampered.
How does vitamin B12 intake influence kidney function? B12, in general, is needed by all body organs for functioning since it controls the nervous system. B12 may not be a highly influencing factor for kidney function, but it is undoubtedly important when treating kidney diseases.
Silybum marianum, known as “milk thistle” or silymarin, is a very safe herb that protects against kidney failure and end-stage diabetic nephropathy.
While plain water is the best drink for your kidneys, other fluids are perfectly acceptable, including coffee, green tea, low-potassium juices, and infused water. Avoid sweetened, carbonated beverages and coconut water.
Often, though, chronic kidney disease has no cure. Treatment usually consists of measures to help control signs and symptoms, reduce complications, and slow progression of the disease. If your kidneys become severely damaged, you might need treatment for end-stage kidney disease.
When your kidneys are failing, a high concentration and accumulation of substances lead to brown, red, or purple urine. Studies suggest the urine color is due to abnormal protein or sugar as well as high numbers of cellular casts and red and white blood cells.
Light-brown or tea-colored urine can be a sign of kidney disease/failure or muscle breakdown.
You're more tired, have less energy or are having trouble concentrating. A severe decrease in kidney function can lead to a buildup of toxins and impurities in the blood. This can cause people to feel tired, weak and can make it hard to concentrate.
Pineapple, cranberries, red grapes, and apples are all kidney-friendly fruits with anti-inflammatory properties.
The kidneys convert vitamin D from supplements or the sun to the active form of vitamin D that is needed by the body. With chronic kidney disease, low vitamin D levels can be found, sometimes even severely low levels. This may occur because injured kidneys are less able to convert vitamin D into its active form.
Fish oil is used to slow the progression of kidney disease in people with IgA nephropathy. While fish oil capsules may be effective in many patients, some patients do not respond to it. How does it work? The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil prevent inflammation in the kidney to slow down progression of kidney disease.