Gitelman Diet

Popcorn is low in magnesium and potassium, and therefore it is a poor food option for those with Gitelman syndrome.

Gitelman syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive renal disorder. It often is referred to as the more mild form of Bartter's syndrome. It affects the kidneys and usually goes undetected until after the age of six.

Significance

Sufferers of Gitelman syndrome usually are deficient in potassium, sodium and magnesium. These minerals are lost through urine rather than being absorbed by the body. Those who have Gitelman syndrome retain more calcium, though.

Magnesium

An average person requires a minimum daily amount of magnesium--about 6 mg per kilogram, or about 350 and 450 mg. Pregnant or ill individuals require more--about 10 mg per kilogram or 600 mg, according to The Bartter Site.

Potassium

Individuals need between 2,000 and 4,000 mg of potassium per day. Those who do not have enough potassium will feel overall weakness and muscle fatigue, according to The Bartter Site.

Good Snack Foods

Snacks high in magnesium and potassium could benefit those with Gitelman syndrome. Nuts, such as peanuts, cashews and roasted almonds, are good sources of both potassium and magnesium. Diet alone will not correct nutrient deficiencies associated with Gitelman syndrome.

References

• Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases: Gitelman Syndrome
• Kidney International:Gitelman's syndrome revisited
• The Bartter Site: Potassium Dosing
• The Bartter Site: Potassium Sparing Medications
• The Bartter Site: Snacks

Resources

• The Bartter Site: Information and Support for Bartter and Gitelman Syndromes