When you’re living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), there are several things that will change in your diet and lifestyle. As a result of these changes, supplements may seem like a good idea to maintain your health. That’s not always the case. Some of these supplements make even make your condition worse.
Why You May Need Supplements
The kidneys are essential for removing waste from the body and keeping your blood clean. When they don’t function well, you can have a build-up of waste in your body and that’s why you need dialysis. Since dialysis isn’t a cure, however, doctors usually recommend that you limit your intake of food that your kidneys won’t be able to process.
Unfortunately, that also means you can’t eat certain foods that are a good source of the nutrients you need. For example, those with CKD can’t eat dark leafy greens, which are a great source of vitamins and minerals.
To make up for the diet change, your doctor may recommend supplements that contain B vitamins, iron, vitamin C, calcium, and vitamin D. It’s never a good idea to start taking supplements that your doctor doesn’t know about.
RELATED: 5 Ways To Preserve Your Kidneys
10 Supplements To Avoid
1. Fat Soluble Vitamins
The fat-soluble vitamins are A, D, E, and K. Your body needs them to function but you have to handle them carefully. It’s best to stick to the vitamins that your doctor prescribes instead of getting one over the counter. The problem with these vitamins is that they won’t be expelled from the body if you consume them in excess so a doctor has to remove them with medication.
2. Horsetail
This herbal supplement is often used to strengthen bones and as a diuretic. Unfortunately, it also causes a significant decrease in vitamin B1 levels and flushes potassium from the body. Both of these are an issue for people with CKD because of dietary restrictions.
3. Creatine
Some people use creatine to build lean muscle but it can be dangerous if you have CKD. The supplement has been associated with elevated blood pressure levels and kidney damage.
4. Goldenrod
Goldenrod can be used as a diuretic as well as an anti-inflammatory. If you have CKD, however, it can interact with your prescribed diuretics and lead to dehydration. The herb can also increase your blood pressure and increase the risk of fluid retention around your heart.
5. Nettle
Some people use stinging nettle to ease arthritic pain and urinary issues. However, it can increase fluid retention and affect how