Polycystic Kidney Disease
By S. G. Sikora

Hi,

I was recently checking out some kidney information and diets, and found a renal diet at http://www.andrew.cmu.edu/~sorensen/sample.htm. I was wondering what you think of it for a patient with Polycystic Kidney Disease.

Thanks.

Thanks for your question! I saw this same diet suggested when I was doing research on PKD. It was posted on a kidney support group bulletin board, and this is my response:
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There are some problems with that diet and, frankly, I'm shocked this would be recommended to someone with kidney problems!

Here are just some of the problems:

1) It is suggested that whole milk be consumed. Dairy is not only high in protein (too high), but high in cholesterol (bad for blood pressure!).  Fortified soy milk would have been a MUCH better suggestion.

2) White bread! Nutritionist Adelle Davis wrote, "...almost all commercial bread is made of highly refined flour loaded with chemical softeners, whiteners, agers, fresheners, preservers and mold- and fungus-growth preventers. Even breads labeled "whole-wheat," unless purchased from a health-food store, often contain most of these same chemicals." She's right... and she wrote that in 1947!! It's still true, and it's still bad for you! Whole grain bread is the best bet.

3) Diet cola! Not only does it contain no nutritive value, but it is loaded with phosphorous! (Bad for you!) Additionally, diet colas tend to dehydrate... something PKD patients can't afford. Water is recommended.

4) Chicken! While some people believe chicken to be safe, it is not only high in animal protein (something to be avoided for someone with kidney problems), but the meat also contains the steroids and antibiotics administered to that chicken during its "production." On top of that, the risk of harmful salmonella and campylobacter bacterium is too high. Better to stick with tofu!

5) Coffee, tea and wine! Both coffee and tea contain caffeine, something you are to consistently avoid if you suffer from PKD. Better to suggest decaffeinated coffee (and only that decaffeinated by the Swiss Water Method or CO2; the chemical decaffeination process leaves behind unhealthy chemicals) and herbal teas that do not contain caffeine. Alcohol is a toxin. While wine is small quantities should be fine, everyday consumption should be discouraged.

The person who designed that diet should be shot!
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I recommend that you check out http://www.pcrm.org/ for some much more sensible diet and nutrition information.

Good luck to you!