Proteinuria, the presence of excessive protein in the urine, is a sign that the kidneys may be starting to fail. Healthy kidneys work hard to retain protein and other vital nutrients, filtering out toxic wastes via urine. Leaking protein into the urine indicates that the kidneys may be damaged. The standard American diet can be toxic to blood vessels in the heart, brain and kidneys. It can force the kidneys into a state of hyperfiltration, which can cause damage.
Dietary Strategies for Reducing Proteinuria
The primary dietary strategy to reduce proteinuria involves shifting toward a whole-food, plant-based diet. This approach can reduce the kidneys’ workload. It is also recommended to reduce the intake of animal protein, which can lead to a buildup of uric acid. Uric acid can form crystals that contribute to kidney stones.
Here are specific dietary recommendations:
Reduce Animal Protein: A reduction in animal protein intake is helpful because it lowers uric acid buildup. Removing all meat from a standard Western diet can reduce the risk of uric acid crystallization by more than 90% in just five days. Researchers at Harvard University followed thousands of healthy women, and their diets, and kidney function for over a decade and found that a higher intake of animal protein was associated with kidney damage. It's also important to note that animal protein can cause the kidneys to work harder.
Increase Plant-Based Foods: The diets that are healthiest for our hearts, centered around unprocessed plant foods, may also be the best way to prevent and treat kidney disease.
Fruits and Vegetables: A greater intake of fruits and vegetables is associated with a reduced risk of kidney stones. Also, plant-based diets are associated with a lower risk of kidney damage. There is no increased risk of kidney stones with higher vegetable intake.
Whole Grains: Include at least three servings of whole grains a day. Studies show that people who eat more whole grains tend to live significantly longer lives. Whole grains can reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity and stroke.
Legumes: Legumes have been shown to reduce inflammatory status and oxidative stress in patients with diabetes. Studies also show that legumes can have a beneficial impact on cardio-metabolic diseases.
Fiber: A diet rich in fiber can help to lower inflammation.
Turmeric: The spice turmeric may help reduce proteinuria. A study showed that oral supplementation of turmeric decreased proteinuria and hematuria in patients with lupus nephritis. Curcumin, a component of turmeric, has demonstrated efficacy against cancer cells. A quarter teaspoon of turmeric is recommended daily.
Black Cumin: Black cumin is another plant that can boost AMPK and has been found to improve weight loss, cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure and blood sugar control. Typical doses of 1-2 g a day are used in studies.
Garlic: A quarter teaspoon of garlic powder can improve artery function and slow the progression of atherosclerosis. Garlic can also significantly lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Vinegar: Vinegar can diminish both visceral and superficial body fat and reduce blood sugars in diabetics, working similarly to exercise. Vinegar plus metformin worked better to control blood sugars than metformin alone.
Cranberries: Cranberry powder has been shown to improve BPH symptoms, quality of life and all urination parameters studied.
Foods to Avoid
Processed Foods: The meat-sweet American diet can slowly damage the kidneys.
Excess Salt: It is important to be mindful of sodium intake, because high-sodium diets can contribute to high blood pressure which can damage the kidneys.
Animal Protein: Diets high in animal protein can contribute to kidney damage and uric acid buildup.
Additional Lifestyle Factors
Exercise: Regular physical activity is important for overall health, which can indirectly benefit kidney health.
Smoking: Avoid secondhand smoke.
Weight Management: Losing excess body fat can help lower inflammation.
The Role of Plant-Based Diets in Reversing Disease
Plant-based diets have shown promise in reversing a variety of conditions, including:
Diabetic Neuropathy: A study showed that 17 out of 21 diabetics experienced complete relief from painful neuropathy within days of starting a whole-food, plant-based diet. Additionally, their numbness improved, they lost weight, blood sugar levels dropped, and insulin needs decreased.
High Blood Pressure: Dr. Walter Kempner, in the 1940s, was able to reverse high blood pressure using a rice-and-fruit diet that was strictly plant-based and low in fat and protein.
Prostate Cancer: A plant-based diet can slow the growth of prostate cancer. The blood of men on a plant-based diet can suppress cancer cell growth by 70%.
Dr. Greger's Approach
Dr. Greger emphasizes the importance of relying on evidence-based science rather than anecdotes. He advocates for a whole-food, plant-based diet, and encourages individuals to empower themselves with knowledge to improve their health. He has made it his mission to share the best available science by posting free daily videos and articles on his website, NutritionFacts.org. Dr. Greger's goal is to present the best available evidence diet, with minimal interpretation, including original papers, charts, graphs, and quotes with links to primary sources.
Specific Recommendations from Dr. Greger’s Daily Dozen
Dr. Greger also provides specific daily recommendations for a healthy plant-based diet. These include: Cruciferous Vegetables: One serving per day, such as arugula, broccoli, and kale Herbs and Spices: Include a quarter teaspoon of turmeric, along with any other salt-free herbs and spices. Whole Grains: Three servings per day, such as barley, brown rice, and oats.
Important Considerations
Individual Variation: Dr. Greger acknowledges that there are many ways to approach a healthy diet, and encourages exploring different methods.
Consultation with Healthcare Professionals: It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have existing health conditions.
In Conclusion
Reducing proteinuria naturally involves adopting a whole-food, plant-based diet that minimizes animal products and emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Specific foods like turmeric, black cumin, garlic and vinegar can also be beneficial. Lifestyle factors such as exercise and avoiding smoking are also important. By empowering ourselves with knowledge and making conscious dietary choices, we can take significant steps to improve kidney health and overall well-being.
References
Greger, M., & Stone, G. (2015). How not to die: Discover the foods scientifically proven to prevent and reverse disease. Flatiron Books.
Greger, M. (2023). How not to age: The scientific approach to getting healthier as you get older. Flatiron Books.
Comments