Potassium Citrate
Dietary Treatment of PKD in Rats
The Tanners, PKD researchers have given us conclusive scientific evidence showing that in the PKD model, those fed an alkalizer [potassium citrate] not only lived almost twice as long lives, but the PKD model on an alkaline diet, did not go on to kidney failure and their cystic kidneys never enlarged to typically huge polycystic PKD kidneys. Whereas their counterparts NOT fed potassium citrate, developed kidney failure; died at 10 months; and they developed huge polycystic kidneys. A lecture by the Tanners, was given to a standing room only crowd backed up all the way down the hallway with eager PKD'rs trying to intently listen to this national PKD conference lecture. This was the first time we had ever seen such a turn out for such an outstanding standing-room-only-PKD-lecture.
We are grateful to have available to us, this detailed potassium citrate clinical research undertaken by both of these dedicated scientists—Judy Tanner and George Tanner. It is through their work that we with PKD have come to learn the benefits of remaining alkaline. The Tanners performed some very precise intricate experiments that led to the discovery that potassium alone helped PKD; and citrate alone helped PKD; but by far and away the most benefit was obtained from alkalinity.
What are some citrate salts?
potassium citrate
calcium citrate or lemon egg
sodium citrate
magnesium citrate
To begin citrate salts have a urinary citrate level done. This should be low as expected with individuals who have PKD. Citrate is utilized by the kidneys as energy. Sodium citrate and potassium citrate are equally effective alkalizers. Calcium citrate is less so. In the normal progression of PKD towards end stage renal disease, potassium rises. Many doctors oftentimes prescribe a favorite old standby, sodium bicarb, as an inexpensive alkalizer. However due to the inherent nature of PKD, this will lead to an increase in kidney stone formation, especially for PKD'rs. We already have a 20% increased risk of developing kidney stones. Taking sodium bicarbonate multiplies this risk. Ask your nephrologist if sodium citrate might prove beneficial for you. Not only is potassium citrate or alkalinity beneficial for PKD, there are some clinical trials that show it also helps lower blood pressure and improve bone density and diminish recurrent kidney stone formation.
Citrate Therapy for Polycystic Kidney Disease in Rats
Nephron Physiol. 2003 Jan;93(1):P14-20.
Tanner GA, Tanner JA.
Source
Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Indiana University School of Medicine,
Indianapolis, Ind 46202, USA
Potassium Citrate/Citric Acid Intake Improves Renal Functioning in PKD Models
Progression of autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) in the heterozygous male Han:SPRD rat is dramatically slowed by ingestion of potassium or sodium citrate.Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of high and low serum potassium.