A Comprehensive Guide on Nephrotic Syndrome and Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurvedic treatment for nephrotic syndrome uses different approaches to treat kidney complications and naturally improves the functioning of kidneys.

Know about Nephrotic Syndrome

When the filtering units of the kidney are damaged, the nephrotic syndrome occurs. Where this protein is normally kept in the plasma leak into the urine in great amounts, leading to the reduction of the amount of protein in the blood.

Small blood vessels in the kidneys function as a filter that clears out extra water and waste from the blood. That water and waste end up in the bladder and gets out in the form of urine. These vessels are part of the filtering part of the kidneys called glomeruli. When they’re damaged, excess protein leak into the urine. And the result is nephrotic syndrome.

Indications Of Nephrotic Syndrome

Also Read : 5 Ways You Can Treat Acute Kidney Disease With Ayurvedic Remedies

People may not know they have nephrotic syndrome until they get a routine blood test and urine tests done. Test results show that a person has an excess of protein in their urine, not enough protein in their blood, or excess cholesterol or fat in their blood. Symptoms of nephrotic syndrome are mentioned below:

• edema, typically in the legs, ankles, or feet

• fatigue

• loss of appetite

• weight gain

• foamy urine

What causes Nephrotic Syndrome?

Generally, Nephrotic Syndrome is caused by damage to the clusters of tiny blood vessels called glomeruli of the kidneys.

The glomeruli filter the blood that passes through the kidneys. Healthy glomeruli keep the blood protein needed to maintain the right amount of fluid in the body — from seeping into the urine. When damaged, glomeruli allow excess blood protein to leave the body, which causes nephrotic syndrome.

Membranous nephropathy. It is the result of the thickening of membranes within the glomeruli. The thickening is caused because of deposits made by the immune system. It can be related to several other medical conditions, such as lupus, malaria, etc., or it can occur for no reason.

Diabetic kidney disease. Diabetes can lead to kidney damage affecting the glomeruli.

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. This condition can result from another disease, a genetic defect, maybe from certain medications, or can also occur for absolutely no known reason.

Amyloidosis. It occurs when amyloid proteins get accumulate in the organs. The buildup of Amyloid can often damage the filtering system of kidneys.

Minimal change disease. It is the most common cause of the nephrotic syndrome. Minimal change disease results in abnormal functioning of the kidney; however, when the kidney tissue is tested under a microscope, it seems normal or near about normal. Although, the cause of the abnormal function generally can't be determined.

View of Ayurveda on Nephrotic Syndrome

According to ayurveda, the blockage of srotas in the kidney causes nephrotic syndrome. The carrying of urine and the flow of fluids within and outside the kidneys is done by the srotas. When these srotas are blogged, the incoming ones cause shrinkage and the stopping of fluid supply to the kidneys, whereas the outgoing srotas cause swelling.

The three life forces, or doshas, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, are responsible for the health of an individual. If even one is vitiated, then some or the other disease occurs. If we talk about the nephrotic syndrome, then, in this case, it is the disruption of the Pitta dosha. The primary aim of the treatment is to correct the pitta dosha balance.

Also Read : Things to know about High creatinine

Diet plans for Nephrotic Syndrome

Diet doesn’t play any role in causing nephrotic syndrome, but what a person eats could worsen its symptoms and cause many other complications like high blood pressure, increased fat in the bloodstream, and renal insufficiency.

Changing the diet is crucial in order to avoid kidney damage. As this disorder happens because of a loss of protein, few people might prevent this loss by eating a diet rich in protein. Nevertheless, a diet rich in protein is not recommended for nephrotic syndrome. Excess protein is threatening because it can damage nephrons and can cause renal insufficiency. Protein intake is recommended but in a low to moderate amount, depending on the condition of the kidneys. Work with the doctor and a dietitian in order to determine the specific needs.

Also, a low-sodium diet is recommended for nephrotic syndrome. Sodium in excess can further cause salt and fluid retention, which results in hypertension and swelling. As this disorder causes high-fat levels in the bloodstream, therefore, reducing fat intake can help prevent cardiovascular disease. To manage this condition, it’s essential to understand what foods a person should eat and what they shouldn’t eat.

Foods to include in Nephrotic Syndrome diet

• peanut butter

• lean meats (poultry, shellfish, etc.)

• dried beans

• soybeans

• fresh or frozen fruit (apples, oranges, bananas, etc.)

• flow-sodium canned vegetables

• Potatoes

• fresh or frozen vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, etc.)

• rice

• unsalted snacks ( nuts, potato chips, popcorn, etc.)

• cottage cheese

• whole grains

• tofu

• milk

• butter or margarine

Restricted foods and foods to avoid in Nephrotic Syndrome

• processed cheeses

• frozen dinners and entrées

• high-sodium meats (bologna, sausage, hot dogs, etc.)

• canned meats

• salted potato chips, popcorn, and nuts

• pickled vegetables

• salted bread

Dietary suggestions for people with Nephrotic Syndrome

The Amount of Protein intake should be limited. The recommended intake of protein for nephrotic syndrome is 1g per kilogram of body weight each day, which equals 0.45 g per pound each day. Nonetheless, this amount can vary based on the current health of the kidneys.

Sodium Intake should be limited. Limit the intake of sodium. Read the labels mentioned on foods and check sodium content before buying food items.

Limit or avoid using seasonings. These contain higher salt content as compared to herbs and spices. If garlic salt has to be used in any recipe, then it’s substitute such as fresh garlic or garlic powder can be used.

Prepare meals at home. Meals available at restaurants can have a higher salt content. Therefore, research a restaurant’s nutritional menu beforehand, and choose dishes with less sodium content. Ask if the restaurant is comfortable preparing the meal without salt.

Use healthy oils. Cook food with olive oil or coconut oil, or any other healthy oil.

Choose fresh vegetables or canned vegetables. Choose vegetables with low sodium or no added sodium to reduce the sodium intake.

Nephrotic syndrome ayurvedic treatment

Nephrotic syndrome ayurvedic medicine is completely natural. A unique combination of several powerful herbs, leaves, and fruits is used that promotes healing of the affected part. Ayurvedic treatment also uses panchakarma treatment to help remove viruses, bacteria, and infections, making a person more vulnerable to kidney-related problems.