Policystic kidney
Last Updated Sep 2007
Q: I have a polycystic kidney disease (PKD). They tell me that I have to eliminate phosphoric proteins. Is that right? I'd like to have your help. I have to eliminate fish? How can I do Zone Diet?
A: One of the most common symptoms of a polycystic kidney is the development of kidney stones, which are crystallized mineral deposits rich in calcium and ammonium phosphate. There is no such thing as phosphoric protein. However, the breakdown of excess amino acids (protein is made up of amino acids) is uric acid. Kidney stones are composed of these mineral deposits, which may also cause gout. The Zone Diet can easily be adapted to your healthcare professional's advice. Purines (natural substances that break down into uric acid) found in fish can contribute to these conditions. Some seafood is lower in purines and in small amounts may be acceptable. Smaller, more-frequent meals in addition to high-dose fish oil will promote vasodilation of the kidney allowing kidney stones to pass more easily. All the information you need to follow the Zone Diet is at www.drsears.com and www.zoneliving.com.