Have you heard about the incredible benefits of a whole food, plant-based diet for those with chronic kidney disease? Recent studies have shown that cutting just a small amount of protein from your daily diet can reduce the risk of dialysis and death by a whopping 77 percent. But did you know that plant-based protein can be even more beneficial for your kidneys than animal-based protein?
When you consume animal-based protein, such as meat, dairy, and egg whites, it can create an acidic environment in the kidneys, leading to inflammation and hyperfiltration mode. However, plant-based protein can actually be alkaline-producing and anti-inflammatory, containing kidney-protective properties. In fact, a plant-dominant low-protein diet (PLADO) has shown significant promise in improving kidney function.
Research has also shown that those with serious kidney disease who follow a plant-based diet index score, where they get points for healthy plant foods and lose points for eating animal foods, have lower systemic inflammation. But does this translate into a longer, healthier life? Yes! Even a small increase in plant-based protein consumption has been linked to a reduction in all-cause mortality. Eating more servings of fruits and vegetables, like two a day compared to two a week, has also been linked to a longer life.
One concern with a plant-based diet for those with chronic kidney disease is the risk of phosphorus and potassium overload. However, the phosphorus in plant-based foods is not as problematic as the phosphorus additives found in processed and animal-based foods. Additionally, the risk of potassium overload from a plant-based diet is overstated and not supported by evidence.
But what happens when you put a whole food, plant-based diet to the test for those with chronic kidney disease? A case report of a 69-year-old man with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and stage 3 chronic kidney disease showed that adopting a whole food, plant-based diet led to rapid improvements in insulin requirements, weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Within just four days, his insulin dose was able to be reduced by more than 50 percent. He was also able to stop multiple medications due to improvements in his health, and ultimately his stage 3 kidney failure was resolved.
For individuals with chronic kidney disease, especially those with obesity, hypertension, or diabetes, a strict, all-you-care-to-eat whole food, plant-based diet may confer significant benefits. In addition to kidney-specific outcomes, overall mortality is significantly lower among kidney patients who eat more plants. So why not give it a try and see the amazing results for yourself?