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Liver, Kidney & Urinary
Taking Care of Your Kidneys
An HSI member named Ron asks: Is there any remedy for loss of some kidney function? What supplements help kidney health?
Needless to say, kidney malfunction is a very serious health condition, so I assume that Ron is under a doctors care. And Rons first question should only be fielded by a physician who understands the cause of Rons kidney problem, how long the condition has been present, family medical history and other important variables.
The second question is somewhat simpler.
First defences
Albumin is a protein that transports various substances in the bloodstream. When too much albumin is excreted in the urine, its a clear sign that the kidneys may be in trouble. Some time ago, I told you about a study that showed how regular intake of vitamins C and E may help lower albumin excretion rate (AER).
A low-protein diet is also recommended to protect at- risk kidneys. And although kidney stones are not necessarily indicative of kidney disease, research shows that a low-protein, low-salt diet offers better protection against kidney stones than the traditionally recommended low-calcium diet. Managing blood sugar levels and blood pressure is also crucial.
A sea-food cocktail
In a 2004 Health eTips e-letter, a reader whose mother had chronic kidney failure asked Dr Jonathan V.
Wright, about using a supplement called chitosan (widely available from health-food shops).
Dr Wright: Chitosan is most popular for its effectiveness as a weight-control supplement. It is extracted from the shells of crustaceans, such as shrimps and crabs, which means that if your mother has an allergy to shellfish, its not an option for her.
If not, however, she may want to consider it. A study published a few years ago clearly showed a benefit to dialysis patients who took chitosan. Half of the 80 study participants took 1,450 milligrams of chitosan, three times daily for 12 weeks; the other half didnt take any chitosan. After the study period, researchers reported that the patients who took chitosan reported less fatigue and shortness of breath, and improvements in appetite, sleep and feelings of physical strength.
Their kidney function also appeared better, and they suffered from less severe anemia a common problem in those with chronic kidney failure. And there were no significant side effects reported.
One word of caution: HSI Panelist Dr Allan Spreen tells me that chitosan blocks absorption of fat in the intestines, so extended use may also block intake of essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. So before using chitosan, Ron should consult his doctor.
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