Question:
Has anyone experienced kidney failure protein in urine chronic anemia?

Has the high amount of protein ingested in low-carb/high protein diets (like Atkins) and/or high protein intake following WLS has been found to have damaged anyone's kidneys? I have proteinuria and chronic anemia, and high BUN and creatine levels which apparently indicate kidney failure. I was on Atkin's back in the late 70's when I was in my 20's (lost 100 lbs one year) and did the same again in the '80's. Now I'm scheduled for open RNY (distal) and plan to take in lots of protein again. I am scheduled for a consult with a nephrologist next week, but was curious to hear if others have had a problem. Thanks.    — Rebecca T. (posted on July 25, 2002)

July 25, 2002
Rebecca, I had a kidney transplant 3 years ago. Needless to say my nephrologist is concerned about how my "borrowed" organ works. Although my surgeon would have done a distal because of my weight, he acceeded to my nephrologist's wishes and did a proximal instead. Malnutrition and absorption of anti-rejection meds were the two main factors. I just got my lastest labs and BUN was 26 and creat level was 1.5 both pretty good for a transplant. By the way, when I was on hemodialysis, I was supposed to get 60g of protein a day and really had to watch fruits and veges because of potassium. It's a good idea to have that consult and let the Docs talk to one another. LOL
   — Janis D.

July 25, 2002
I was recently diagnosed with Hyperuricosurea, a genetic condition in which the kidneys do not handle uric acid effenciently, which results in kidney stones, urinary tract and kidney infections and gout. A high protein diet, such as we follow after WLS aggravates this condition. So, I was told to avoid foods that cause the body to produce higher then normal levels of uric acid and to drink lots of water, as I am already doing, and I will soon be placed on medication to help control the condition.
   — Susan M.

July 26, 2002
Rebecca, I also have kidney disease and it was the kidney doctor that was the most optmistic about me having surgery, he is the one that talked to my other doctors about it. (My cardiologist was very undecided before speaking to him.) He thinks that the disease I have will go in to remission if I lose 200#. (My BUN and creatine levels are also high resulting in my diagnosis of chronic renal failure.) I have seen many doctors for my kineys over the years and this is the first time one has given me any hope. The amount of protein we will eat, 60-80 grams is within the amount I have had my patiens limited to in the past when taking care of renal patients. I would go to the doctor that you are refered to and get his opinion. It is good to get input from others but utimately it is what your doctor says that you must listen to. Best of luck to you on your journey! God Bless.
   — garnet156