Nephrotic Syndrome refers to a condition that involves damage to the kidneys,
in which the kidney is unable to filter excessive water and wastes from the
blood. This disorder is characterized by proteiuria (>3.5g/d),
hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia and severe edema (anasarca or dropsy). Diet
plays a very important role in the treatment and recovery for Nephrotic Syndrome
patients, so you should know what you can and cannot eat.
Food that can be taken by Nephrotic Syndrome:
● As the kidneys are not able to work properly, large amount of protein from
the blood leak into the urine. A healthier diet rich in protein can definitely
help to prevent further kidney damage, so moderate protein intake (about 1gm/kg
body weight) can preserve renal functions. You can compensate for protein loss
by taking adequate amount of high-quality protein contained in food such as
eggs, chicken, lean meat, egg whites, skimmed milk, salmon, sardines, etc.
● Sodium intake should be low, which may help with swelling in the hands and
legs. Soups, sauces, chocolate drinks, juices, etc (but with low sodium content)
are ok. You can also eat wafers, popcorns, chutneys which are prepared in less
salt and noodles, spaghetti, pancakes, etc (low in salt).
Foods that should be avoided by Nephrotic Syndrome:
◆ Excessive intake of protein should be avoided as the kidneys may need to
function more vigorously to filter surplus protein.
◆ High amount of fats should be avoided because Nephrotic Syndrome patients
tend to suffer from high cholesterol and high triglyceride levels, so you should
avoid the excess intake of oily food and saturated fats such as ghee, margarine,
etc.
◆ Foods that are high in sodium content should be avoided, such as salted
wafers and popcorns, canned meat, salted biscuits and snacks, salted pickles,
chutneys, curry powder, salted cashew nuts, pistachio, walnuts, peanuts,
etc.
If you still have any questions about the diet for Nephrotic Syndrome, feel
free to talk with our online experts.