What Helps Kidney Function?
Kidney disease results in the loss of normal kidney function. When kidney function declines, it affects the entire body. Several treatments improve kidney function and slow down the progression of kidney disease.
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Significance
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When kidney function is impaired, waste products build up in the body and cause serious complications.
Methods
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Reduced protein intake can help improve kidney function. ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) protect the kidneys from additional damage, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Angiotensin receptor blockers also reduce the risk of cardiovascular events associated with kidney disease.
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Effects
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Since protein breakdown creates waste products, reducing your protein intake reduces the amount of wastes the kidneys have to filter. This reduces their workload and may improve their function.
Risks
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Low-protein diets may not provide enough calcium, iron, niacin, thiamine and riboflavin, according to the National Institutes of Health. Seek the advice of a kidney specialist or renal dietitian before following this type of diet. ACE inhibitors and ARBs have side effects including diarrhea, hoarseness, headache, lightheadedness and dizziness.
Considerations
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Diabetes is one of the major risk factors for kidney disease. If you have kidney disease and diabetes, you will need to work closely with a dietitian to develop a diet plan that helps improve kidney function and keeps blood glucose levels controlled. If you have high blood pressure or heart disease, you will have to incorporate foods with low fat and sodium levels into your low-protein diet.
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