Polycystic Kidney Disease Diet: Nutrition Tips for Managing PKD

What is polycystic kidney disease? 

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder and type of chronic kidney disease that affects about 500,000 people in the United States. 

PKD causes cyst-filled sacs to grow on the kidneys, leading to reduced kidney function and potentially kidney failure. 

Pain, high blood pressure, cysts on the liver and problems with blood vessels are signs, symptoms and complications of PKD. 

There is currently no cure for PKD, however, changes to lifestyle and diet may help manage 

Eight tips for following the PKD Diet

While there is technically not a standard PKD diet, there are key changes you can make to your diet that may slow the progression of PKD.

Include KetoCitra® in your PKD diet

This medical food supports the dietary management of PKD by: 

● Providing the ketone BHB to support ketosis. 

● Helping your kidneys be more resilient against harmful crystals by providing citrate,calcium and magnesium to normalize urine pH.

● Contains potassium which may help with managing blood pressure.

For more information about KetoCitra scan the QR code above or visit: https://santabarbaranutrients.com/

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated with water and unsweetened beverages may slow cyst growth and help prevent kidney stones. If you are in stages 1-3 CKD, aim for 3 liters of water per day. Consult with your doctor if you are in later stages. 

Carry a water bottle with you or use a nutrition app that reminds you to drink. Talk to your renal dietitian about drinking coffee, tea and any other unsweetened, flavored beverages.  

Limit sugar 

Sugar may promote the growth of kidney cysts. Limit added sugars found in sweetened beverages and desserts and naturally occurring sugars in high glycemic fruit, honey and syrups.

Remember to check nutrition labels for added sugars. Try stevia and monk fruit-based sweeteners instead of artificial sweeteners.

Limit sodium

High sodium foods can increase your blood pressure. Depending on the stage of kidney disease, aim to keep your sodium levels to 1500-2300 mg per day. 

Learn about how much sodium is in your food by reading package labels. Enjoy minimally processed foods and rely on methods other than salt, like herbs and spices, to season your food. 

Plant-focused PKD Diet 

Eating animal foods can lead to acidic urine which makes the kidneys work harder, increasing risk for crystals and kidney stones. 

Balance moderate amounts of animal products with an abundance of plants to help protect the kidneys and increase your fiber intake.

Low-Carb Foods and Ketosis

High carbohydrate diets can accelerate the progression of PKD. Following a very low carbohydrate, high fat, moderate protein ketogenic dietmay help. 

Time restricted eating, for example eating only during an 8-hour window, can also help manage blood sugar levels. 

Avoid Phosphate Additives

Phosphates, a common food additive in processed foods, can increase the risk of crystals and kidney stones. Try to avoid foods with phosphate additives by reading labels. 

Look for anything containing “phos” in the name (like dicalcium phosphate).

Reduce Oxalates

Oxalates are compounds found in plants and waste products excreted by the kidneys. Kidney damage can occur when too many oxalates are consumed. 

Replace high oxalate foods with low-oxalate alternatives. Stay under 100 mg of daily oxalates if possible.

To learn more about the top 8 dietary and lifestyle changes for PKD visit: https://santabarbaranutrients.com/top-8/

Disclaimer: this post is for educational and informational purposes only. Consult a medical professional for individualized advice.