In a recent personal post, nutritionist Tseng Chien-ming shared the story of a patient whose estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) had dropped to just 39. Tseng recounted that when asked about medication adherence, the patient admitted to sometimes forgetting prescribed drugs but never missing a day of supplements like fish oil, curcumin, and multivitamins. Tseng described this as patients revering supplements as "miracle cures" for all ailments while downplaying life-saving medications.
 |
Illustrative photo: Harvard Health Publishing |
An eGFR of 39 indicates the patient has progressed to stage 3b chronic kidney disease. At this stage, individuals must not consume nutrients or diet haphazardly. Specialist Tseng identified 4 groups of high-dose supplements that often accelerate kidney deterioration.
First, multivitamins often contain many oil-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin A, along with minerals like potassium and phosphorus. The bodies of kidney failure patients cannot effectively metabolize these substances, leading to toxic accumulation. Patients should only use products specifically formulated for kidney conditions. Second, consuming low-purity fish oil or fish oil with added high-dose oil-soluble vitamins inadvertently burdens the excretory system.
Third, turmeric powder or curcumin products on the market often contain high levels of potassium ions, which can negatively interact with blood pressure medications or anticoagulants. Finally, patients who consume excessive B vitamins force their kidneys' already fatigued filtering system to overwork to excrete the surplus.
The specialist emphasized that medications controlling blood pressure, blood sugar, or proteinuria are the "weapons" that protect kidneys and slow degeneration. Supplements only support health; they cannot replace conventional medical therapy. Doctors advise patients to prioritize taking their prescribed medication on time. If patients wish to use additional supplementary products, they should bring the packaging to the clinic for medical professionals to assess their quality, preventing further harm to the body.
Binh Minh (According to CTwant, Mirror Media)
