For people with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), the primary driver of
illness development is cyst formation. The downward progression of the disease
is accelerated by the additional wear and tear due to leakage of proteins
through the glomerular filtration membrane. So it is necessary to eat a sensible
diet which can help stay healthy. How much protein should you have?
The features of protein include:
▪ Can't be stored, needs replenishing
▪ Builds muscles
▪ Used for tissue growth and repair, helps fight colds, flu and
infections
▪ The kidneys process protein into a waste product-creatinine
▪ Too much intake is dangerous for kidneys (lead to PKD complications and
raise Urea Nitrogen waste in blood, making you tired)
Classification
● Animal proteins: eggs, dairy, meat, poultry, fish
It is considered best as they are 'complete', and have the right amounts of
what the body needs.
● Vegetable proteins: Grains, legumes, nuts/seeds
This is 'incomplete', as they are relatively low in one or more essential
amino acids.
Patients with PKD and other kidney disease should eat the former
high-quality, or complete kind.
As for the daily intake, the following are some suggestions:
1. Eat about 1g per kg ideal body weight per day
2. Avoid too much and too litter amount
3. Samples: Breakfast-Tea/coffee with milk (6g)
Lunch-Cottage cheese salad or lentil soup (12g) Dinner: fish dinner (27g)
4. For highly active people, you may need more amount. Please consult your
doctor if uncertain.
5. This diet is not recommended for children or patients on dialysis.