For Professionals

What milk and cereal should I eat with stage 4 and is there a vitamin that should be taken to lower creatinine?

Nutrition needs in CKD stage 4 vary from person to person. But in general, the recommendation is to choose lower protein options. For milk, choose a nut milk without added protein such as almond milk. Be sure to check the label and avoid any with additives especially phosphorus and potassium additives. Oatmeal is a good breakfast choice, but the instant oatmeal packs tend to have phosphorus and potassium additives. Try making your own: use a quick cook oatmeal, add a bit of brown sugar (1 teaspoon) and cinnamon or any other spice flavoring, maybe try adding little maple syrup instead of the brown sugar. Add fresh/frozen berries or a chopped apple which add flavor and texture. Vitamins are tricky. I do not know of any vitamins that help lower creatinine. Also vitamins are not regulated by the USDA or FDA, so when choosing a vitamin, first talk with your doctor and if given the green light look for a vitamin that is 3rd party verified. USP and NSF are 2 of the 3rd party verifying organizations that are creditable. Talk with your doctor, they might prescribe medications such a sodium bicarbonate to help preserve kidney function. I do not recommend taking any over the counter supplements, including sodium bicarbonate or vitamin without speaking with your doctor first.

Dietitian

Carolyn Feibig, MS, RD, LD, CCTD

Disclaimer

Kidney Kitchen is not designed to diagnose disease or prescribe an eating plan for your stage of kidney disease. The information shared on Kidney Kitchen is developed by experts in renal nutrition and is provided for informational purposes only. The American Kidney Fund, its staff, agents and Trustees are not able to provide medical advice. Please consult with a medical professional or registered dietitian for specific questions you may have about your diet. Learn more

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