Recently Diagnosed or Relapsed? Stop Looking For a Miracle Cure, and Use Evidence-Based Therapies To Enhance Your Treatment and Prolong Your Remission
Multiple Myeloma an incurable disease, but I have spent the last 25 years in remission using a blend of conventional oncology and evidence-based nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle therapies from peer-reviewed studies that your oncologist probably hasn't told you about.
Click the orange button to the right to learn more about what you can start doing today.
Kidney Damage Is A Common Symptom of Multiple Myeloma. Renal Insufficiency AKA Kidney Damage and is Characterized by an Elevated Serum Creatinine.
Bone Pain, Anemia and Kidney Damage are the Big Three multiple myeloma symptoms for newly diagnosed patients. When it comes to your kidneys, both multiple myeloma, the cancer itself, as well as conventional therapies such as bisphophonate therapy can damage kidney function. Serum Creatinine is a key indicator of kidney health.
Myeloma patients usually don’t die from their cancer. They die from health problems caused by their cancer such as bone damage and/or from the toxicity caused by chemotherapy and radiation.
The solution? When it comes to managing your kidney health, consider supplementing with curcumin, thymoquinone, CoQ10, vitamin D3. I do and have for years now.
Further, scroll down the page to read about nutritional therapies to manage kidney health.
When it comes to managing your multiple myeloma, consider taking an integrative and complementary approach. Enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and while you reduce the toxicity with evidence-based integrative therapies. When you are not undergoing conventional therapies, pursue evidenced-based complementary therapies.
What have I learned about MM over the past 20+ years? Myeloma is about two things
symptoms- bone damage, anemia, kidney function, etc. and
side effects- anemia, kidney damage, heart damage, chemobrain, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, etc.
Whether you are debating treatment options, currently undergoing treatment and experiencing painful side effects, or trying to figure out how to stay in remission, I want to share what I’ve learned from 25 years living with myeloma and 19 of those year in complete remission from Multiple Myeloma.
The question then is how to keep an eye on your Serum Creatinine (kidney damage) and those therapies that you can follow that may help your kidney function.
I have found that annual blood testing through LabCorp. is a cost-effective, accurate, efficient method of tracking my health. I have blood tests taken annually. Like I said, cost-effective, accurate, efficient.
As you can see from my serum creatinine testing below, I tested with a “normal” creatinine blood level from ’09-’11. My serum creatinine results recently were a bit low in 11/14. The definition of creatinine below talks about lowering creatinine blood levels as we age.
As I suffer from chemo and radiation induced nerve damage, my leg muscles slowly atrophy probably causing reduced muscle mass. I have lost about 10 pounds over the past 15 years or so.
As you can read from the studies below both vitamin D3 and CoQ10 are beneficial for kidney damage.
11/5/2014
Creatinine, Serum 0.73 Low mg/dL 0.76-1.27
9/20/2011
Creatinine, Serum 0.85 mg/dL 0.76-1.27
9/10/2010
Creatinine, Serum 0.85 mg/dL 0.76-1.27
5/29/2009
Creatinine, Serum 0.90 mg/dL 0.76-1.27
Scroll down the page, post a question or comment and I will reply to you ASAP.
“Serum creatinine (a blood measurement) is an important indicator of renal health (kdney damage ) because it is an easily measured byproduct of muscle metabolism that is excreted unchanged by the kidneys. Creatinine itself is produced[2] via a biological system involving creatine, phosphocreatine (also known as creatine phosphate), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP, the body’s immediate energy supply)…”
“…Normal levels of creatinine in the blood are approximately 0.6 to 1.2 milligrams (mg) per deciliter (dL) in adult males and 0.5 to 1.1 milligrams per deciliter in adult females.
Muscular young or middle-aged adults may have more creatinine in their blood than the norm for the general population. Elderly persons, on the other hand, may have less creatinine in their blood than the norm… In people with malnutrition, severe weight loss, and long standing illnesses, the muscle mass tends to diminish over time and, therefore, their creatinine level may be lower than expected for their age.”
“Before the substitutive antioxidative treatment, coenzyme Q10 levels reached in blood 0.11 +/- 0.03 mumol/l and 0.15 +/- 0.04 mumol/l in plasma. These values were well below the reference range (rr) is 0.4 +/- 1.0 mumol/l).
After the substitution coenzyme Q10 levels significantly increased (p < 0.001) to the values of 1.66 +/- 0.16 mumol/l in blood and to 1.78 +/- 0.27 mumol/l in plasma. Plasma levels of beta-carotene increased from the markedly subnormal values 0.25 +/- 0.07 mumol/l (rr > 0.8 mumol/l) to 0.56 +/- 0.02 mumol/l (no statistical difference).
Plasma levels of alpha-tocopherol remained within the reference range 32.15 +/- 4.73 mumol/l (rr 15-30 mumol/l) and they increased up to the plasma level of 44.83 +/- 5.82 mumol/l during the period of testing. \
Malondialdehyde levels did not significantly change within the testing period. No changes in renal functions and parameters of lipid metabolism were described. Patients well tolerated the treatment and no adverse effects were seen during the period of observation.
CONCLUSIONS: Our results ascertained that levels of antioxidant CoQ10 were lower in patients with nephropathy (kidney damage) who underwent conservative treatment with peroral substation. Such deficit can be amended by CoQ10 administration, which could be therefore taken as complementary treatment of nephrology.
“Chronic kidney disease (CKD- kidney damage) is an emerging public health problem and one of the most powerful predictors of premature cardiovascular disease. Emerging evidence suggests that the progression of CKD and many of the cardiovascular complications may be linked to hypovitaminosis D.
Patients with CKD have an exceptionally high rate of severe vitamin D deficiency that is further exacerbated by the reduced ability to convert 25-(OH)vitamin D into the active form, 1,25 dihydroxy-vitamin D.
As new evidence has improved our understanding of classical, as well as the non-classical, functions for vitamin D, it has become apparent that the autocrine role of vitamin D is an important modulator of several systems including the immune, renal and cardiovascular systems.
In addition to the traditional supplementation of 1,25-vitamin D to CKD patients, by assessing and repleting 25-(OH)vitamin D deficiency, physicians will adequately fuel both the renal and extra-renal pathways of calcitriol synthesis maintaining the classical, as well as the non-classical, functions of vitamin D that ultimately influence clinical outcomes in this high-risk group of patients…
Vitamin D has emerged as a vital compound in CKD with newly ascribed autocrine functions vastly different from its classical function in mineral homeostasis. To ignore the significance of this vitamin and its potential impact on morbidity and mortality in the CKD patient is no longer appropriate.1,5,16
In addition to the traditional supplementation of 1,25-vitamin D to CKD patients, by assessing and repleting 25(OH) vitamin D deficiency, physicians will adequately fuel both the renal and extra-renal pathways of calcitriol synthesis, maintaining the classical and non-classical functions of vitamin D that ultimately influence clinical outcomes in this high-risk group of patients.
Because of the high rates of hypovitaminosis (deficiency) D and progression of CKD to end-stage renal disease in minority populations, this approach is highly relevant to national efforts to reduce health disparities…”
Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable that is high in many nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K and the B vitamin folate.
It’s also full of anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles and an excellent source of fiber (17Trusted Source).
Plus, mashed cauliflower can be used in place of potatoes for a low-potassium side dish.
One cup (124 grams) of cooked cauliflower contains (18):
Sodium: 19 mg
Potassium: 176 mg
Phosphorus: 40 mg
2. Blueberries
Blueberries are packed with nutrients and one of the best sources of antioxidants you can eat (19Trusted Source).
In particular, these sweet berries contain antioxidants called anthocyanins, which may protect against heart disease, certain cancers, cognitive decline and diabetes (20).
They also make a fantastic addition to a kidney-friendly diet, as they are low in sodium, phosphorus and potassium.
One cup (148 grams) of fresh blueberries contains (21):
Sodium: 1.5 mg
Potassium: 114 mg
Phosphorus: 18 mg
3. Sea Bass
Sea bass is a high-quality protein that contains incredibly healthy fats called omega-3s.
While all fish are high in phosphorus, sea bass contains lower amounts than other seafood choices.
However, it’s important to consume small portions in order to keep phosphorus levels in check.
Three ounces (85 grams) of cooked sea bass contain (25):
Sodium: 74 mg
Potassium: 279 mg
Phosphorus: 211 mg
4. Red Grapes
Not only are red grapes delicious, they also deliver a ton of nutrition in a small package.
Red grapes are high in vitamin C and contain antioxidants called flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation (26Trusted Source).
Additionally, red grapes are high in resveratrol, a type of flavonoid that has been shown to benefit heart health and protect against diabetes and cognitive decline (27Trusted Source, 28Trusted Source).
These sweet fruits are kidney-friendly, with a half cup (75 grams) containing (29):
Sodium: 1.5 mg
Potassium: 144 mg
Phosphorus: 15 mg
5. Egg Whites
Although egg yolks are very nutritious, they contain high amounts of phosphorus, making egg whites a better choice for people following a renal diet.
Egg whites provide a high-quality, kidney-friendly source of protein.
Not to mention, they are an excellent choice for people undergoing dialysis treatment, as they have higher protein needs but need to limit phosphorus.
Bulgur is an ancient grain that makes a terrific, kidney-friendly alternative to other whole grains that are high in phosphorus and potassium.
This nutritious grain is a good source of B vitamins, magnesium, iron and manganese.
It’s also an excellent source of plant-based protein and full of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health.
A half-cup (91-gram) serving of bulgur contains (36):
Sodium: 4.5 mg
Potassium: 62 mg
Phosphorus: 36 mg
10. Cabbage
Cabbage belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family and is loaded with vitamins, minerals and powerful plant compounds.
It’s a great source of vitamin K, vitamin C and many B vitamins.
Furthermore, it provides insoluble fiber, a type of fiber that keeps your digestive system healthy by promoting regular bowel movements and adding bulk to stools (37Trusted Source).
Plus, it’s low in potassium, phosphorus and sodium with one cup (70 grams) of shredded cabbage containing (38):
Sodium: 13 mg
Potassium: 119 mg
Phosphorus: 18 mg
11. Skinless Chicken
Although a limited protein intake is necessary for some people with kidney issues, providing the body with an adequate amount of high-quality protein is vital for health.
Skinless chicken breast contains less phosphorus, potassium and sodium than skin-on chicken.
When shopping for chicken, choose fresh chicken and avoid pre-made roasted chicken, as it contains large amounts of sodium and phosphorus.
Three ounces (84 grams) of skinless chicken breast contains (39):
Sodium: 63 mg
Potassium: 216 mg
Phosphorus: 192 mg
12. Bell Peppers
Bell peppers contain an impressive amount of nutrients but are low in potassium, unlike many other vegetables.
These brightly colored peppers are loaded with the powerful antioxidant vitamin C.
In fact, one small red bell pepper (74 grams) contains 158% of the recommended intake of vitamin C.
They are also loaded with vitamin A, an important nutrient for immune function, which is often compromised in people with kidney disease (40).
Onions are excellent for providing sodium-free flavor to renal-diet dishes.
Reducing salt can be difficult for many patients, making finding flavorful salt alternatives a must.
Sautéeing onions with garlic and olive oil adds flavor to dishes without compromising your kidney health.
What’s more, onions are high in vitamin C, manganese and B vitamins and contain prebiotic fibers that help keep your digestive system healthy by feeding beneficial gut bacteria (42Trusted Source.
Many healthy greens like spinach and kale are high in potassium and difficult to fit into a renal diet.
However, arugula is a nutrient-dense green that is low in potassium, making it a good choice for kidney-friendly salads and side dishes.
Arugula is a good source of vitamin K and the minerals manganese and calcium, all of which are important for bone health.
This nutritious green also contains nitrates, which have been shown to lower blood pressure, an important benefit for those with kidney disease (44Trusted Source).
Most nuts are high in phosphorus and not recommended for those following a renal diet.
However, macadamia nuts are a delicious option for people with kidney problems. They are much lower in phosphorus than popular nuts like peanuts and almonds.
They are also packed with healthy fats, B vitamins, magnesium, copper, iron and manganese.
One ounce (28 grams) of macadamia nuts contains (46):
Sodium: 1.4 mg
Potassium: 103 mg
Phosphorus: 53 mg
16. Radish
Radishes are crunchy vegetables that make a healthy addition to a renal diet.
This is because they are very low in potassium and phosphorus but high in many other important nutrients.
Radishes are a great source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that has been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease and cataracts (47Trusted Source, 48Trusted Source).
Additionally, their peppery taste makes a flavorful addition to low-sodium dishes.
A half cup (58 grams) of sliced radishes contains (49):
Sodium: 23 mg
Potassium: 135 mg
Phosphorus: 12 mg
17. Turnips
Turnips are kidney-friendly and make an excellent replacement for vegetables that are higher in potassium like potatoes and winter squash.
These root vegetables are loaded with fiber and nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese and calcium.
They can be roasted or boiled and mashed for a healthy side dish that works well for a renal diet.
A half cup (78 grams) of cooked turnips contains (50):
Sodium: 12.5 mg
Potassium: 138 mg
Phosphorus: 20 mg
18. Pineapple
Many tropical fruits like oranges, bananas and kiwis are very high in potassium.
Luckily, pineapple makes a sweet, low-potassium alternative for those with kidneys problems.
Plus, pineapple is rich in fiber, B vitamins, manganese and bromelain, an enzyme that helps reduce inflammation (51).
One cup (165 grams) of pineapple chunks contains (52):
Sodium: 2 mg
Potassium: 180 mg
Phosphorus: 13 mg
19. Cranberries
Cranberries benefit both the urinary tract and kidneys.
These tiny, tart fruits contain phytonutrients called A-type proanthocyanidins, which prevent bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urinary tract and bladder, thus preventing infection (53, 54Trusted Source).
This is helpful for those with kidney disease, as they have an increased risk of urinary tract infections (55).
Cranberries can be eaten dried, cooked, fresh or as a juice. They are very low in potassium, phosphorus and sodium.
One cup (100 grams) of fresh cranberries contains (56):
Sodium: 2 mg
Potassium: 85 mg
Phosphorus: 13 mg
20. Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms are a savory ingredient that can be used as a plant-based meat substitute for those on a renal diet who need to limit protein.
They are an excellent source of B vitamins, copper, manganese and selenium.
In addition, they provide a good amount of plant-based protein and dietary fiber.
Shiitake mushrooms are lower in potassium than portobello and white button mushrooms, making them a smart choice for those following a renal diet (57, 58).
One cup (145 grams) of cooked shiitake mushroom contains (59):
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