Diet Plan for FSGS

FSGS (focal segmental glomerulosclerosis) is a genetic abnormality that affects glomerulus of the kidneys. The scar tissue covers the body's filtration system, and it can lead to chronic renal failure. Diet plays a huge role in prevention of FSGS and relieving the illness condition in sufferers. Diet plan for FSGS is similar to that in Nephrotic Syndrome, which consists of low salt, fat and cholesterol, with emphasis on fruits and vegetables.

Your kidneys contain thousands of tiny blood vessels called glomeruli, which filter waste products from your blood. When these blood vessels become scarred, it is known as glomerulosclerosis. FSGS describes that part of the glomerular filtering cells(not all) are damaged. Because scarring interferes with the kidneys' filtering abilities, protein can leak from the blood into the urine. Proteinuria is usually discovered during routine physical exams. The loss of proteins from urine may cause swelling in limbs and eyelids; most patients with FSGS also experience high blood pressure.

What is the diet plan for FSGS? The diet for FSGS require moderate intake of proteins, and the amount of protein depends on the patient’s current condition, age and weight, thus it is very important that a nephrologist be consulted. Low sodium (salt) helps with swelling in the hands and legs, and too much sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and edema.

People with FSGS may develop high blood cholesterol due to loss of serum proteins and swelling. Lots of fresh fruit and vegetables - fiber such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables can help lower total and LDL cholesterol. Sometimes fluids should be restricted, as determined by a nephrologist. Protein levels should be increased or decreased when your proteinuria gets better or worsened. Potassium or phosphorous be restricted, only if kidneys are failing and as determined by a nephrologist. To limit fat and cholesterol, whole eggs need to be limited to 2 per week, and it will be better to choose healthy oils such as olive, canola, safflower and sunflower. Limit saturated fats (dairy, animal fat) and eliminate trans fat (partially hydrogenated oils found in processed and fast food).

The above are general guidlines as to the diet plan for FSGS, if you want to learn about the diet for your specilized condition, you may consult us directly for free.