AlkaliZERS
Alkalinity holds the key for longevity. The scientific evidence for this has come through the detailed work of PKD researchers, George and Judy Tanner. It is through their research that we have received verification of our own empirical alkaline experiences. These two brilliant PKD researchers have opened the door for the possibility that alkaline changes could maintain the health of our cystic organs, perhaps for a lifetime. The earlier this is begun, the better are the results. We are grateful for their potassium citrate research  [K Citrate] in the PKD model. It is through the Tanners' painstakingly precise measurements and experiments that we have conclusive proof that alkalizers such as potassium citrate, are tremendously helpful in slowing down the progression of polycystic kidney disease.

Early in 1994, Dr. Torres looked at alkalinity. He used baking soda or sodium bicarb. The PKD model did improve however they all developed kidney stones. By testing with ammonia, the conclusion was that acidity worsens PKD. Newly found alkaline knowledge has paved the path that our greatest benefit can be achieved through alkalinity alone. Citrate is helpful and potassium is also helpful, however, alkalinity provides the most substantial likelihood of achieving PKD cystic organ health.

Potassium citrate and sodium citrate are equally effective alkalizers. Calcium citrate is less so. With these citrate salts, the citrate molecule flies off and is utilized by the kidney for energy. An alkaline diet alone can achieve alkalinity. For some, supplementation with Potassium Citrate may be required to help regulate a constant alkalinity. Potassium Citrate supplements requires a physician's input to carefully monitor subtle changes in our serum potassium levels. Without this precaution, potassium levels can become dangerously high, and even life-threatening. Perhaps someday, individuals with PKD will be able to self-monitor their potassium levels much like diabetics monitor blood sugar. Get a physician's expertise help and familiarize yourself with high potassium symptoms and low potassium symptoms. If you do not feel well, go immediately to the emergency room or urgent care center and get your potassium level checked

Sodium Bicarbonate tablets is an old reliable alkalizer, used for many years, to treat chronic kidney disease.  Many nephrologists continue to prescribe sodium bicarb, also known as baking soda, to individuals late in PKD, unaware that this can promote a higher incidence of kidney stones for PKD individuals. Due to the inherent nature of PKD, unfortunately sodium bicarbonate increases kidney stone formation. Individuals with PKD kidneys have a 30% greater chance for developing kidney stones. Unlike citrate salts, where the citrate is utilized for energy, the bicarbonate ion spins off and forms a common kidney stone compound – calcium carbonate, the most common PKD kidney stone.

HIGH POTASSIUM                                                                                                                                                                   LOW POTASSIUM
Stomach Cramps                                                                                                                                                                       Cramping & Muscle weakness
Intestinal Cramps                                                                                                                                                                       Fatigue
Weakness Nausea                                                                                                                                                                     Confusion
Generalized Fatigue                                                                                                                                                                  Difficulties with muscle coordination
Paralysis                                                                                                                                                                                    Irregular heartbeat
Palpitations                                                                                                                                                                                Heart failure
Numbness
Burning / tingling
Slow pulse
Mental Confusion
Tiredness
Nausea
EKG changes
Irregular heartbeat
Sudden death

Nettle non-alcoholic extract is another alkalizer. It lowers uric acid. Nettle is high in potassium. Some have tried (2) two drops in a cup of warm water following each meal to keep themselves alkaline. Urtica dioica L. and Urtica urens L., (stinging nettles) are other names for nettle. Urtica semen is nettle that is derived solely from the seed.

Colchicine has been shown in the PKD model to decrease cyst growth.

Foods that are alkalizers:
Nettle extract [non-alcoholic]
Lemon juice
Melon juice
Orange juice
Cabbage juice
Barley and other cereal grass juices i.e., spelt grass juice, wheat grass juice
Parsley juice filled with chlorophyll
Watercress and field cress
Foods such as celery, though alkaline, has too many concentrated toxins. Spinach is high in oxalates and can contribute to joint pains.