Understanding Age-Related Kidney Decline

As we age, our kidneys naturally experience a decline in function, becoming one of the fastest aging organs. This decline typically commences around age 30-40 and accelerates into our 50s and 60s. Alarmingly, over 50% of individuals aged over 75 undergo a significant decline in kidney function, often unnoticed. This deterioration, known as mild insufficiency or chronic kidney disease, significantly heightens the risk of heart attacks.

The Significance of Kidney Health

Kidney disease claims more lives annually than breast and prostate cancer combined. Advanced kidney disease may necessitate dialysis or even a kidney transplant, emphasizing the critical importance of preserving kidney function for prolonged well-being.

Identifying Kidney Risk Factors

Numerous factors contribute to kidney disease, including high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney stones, family history, prolonged use of pain medications, and age over 60. Certain autoimmune conditions also elevate the risk of kidney damage and declining function.

Combatting Kidney Decline with Antioxidants

Research suggests that free radical damage to kidney cells significantly contributes to age-related kidney function decline and is associated with conditions such as diabetes and autoimmune disorders. Studies indicate that higher free radical levels correlate with accelerated kidney function decline as we age.

Harnessing Supplements for Kidney Protection

Thankfully, targeted dietary supplements can aid in preventing or reversing kidney function decline. Research has shown that supplements like N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can boost glutathione synthesis in kidney cells, improving kidney function and reducing inflammation. Additionally, supplements such as alpha-lipoic acid, silymarin (from Milk thistle), L-glutamine, Coenzyme Q10, and choline (found in lecithin capsules) elevate kidney glutathione levels, providing additional protection against kidney damage.

Recommended Supplement Regimen

Consider supplementing with a combination containing:

• NAC (N-acetylcysteine)
• Alpha-lipoic acid
• L-Glutamine
• Milk thistle (standardized to 80% silymarin content)

Incorporating CoQ10 and lecithin capsules into your regimen can further bolster kidney health.

Taking Proactive Steps for Kidney Health

Individuals over 40-50 should consider supplementing to support kidney function. Consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you have existing kidney disease. Regular kidney function screening through blood tests is essential. Share the provided references with your healthcare professional to facilitate informed discussions about incorporating these supplements into your health regimen.

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References:

National Kidney Foundation: Decline in Kidney Function with Aging and Incidence of Kidney Disease
https://www.kidney.org/news/monthly/wkd_aging#:~:text=Kidney%20disease%20can%20develop%20at,believed%20to%20have%20kidney%20disease.

Aging and Kidney Function
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2744545/

Decreased Glutathione in Aging:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8457589/

NAC Supplementation and Kidney Function
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8129408/

Silymarin in Diabetic Nephropathy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25340091/

Alpha Lipoic Acid in Renal Damage – Ferroptosis
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2021.680544/full

Alpha Lipoic Acid in Diabetic Nephropathy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23531536/

L-Glutamine Raises Glutathione Levels
https://biomedres.us/pdfs/BJSTR.MS.ID.002293.pdf

CoQ10 Supplementation in Kidney Disease
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35643375/#:~:text=Oral%20Coenzyme%20Q10%20supplementation%20leads,to%20primary%20Coenzyme%20Q10%20deficiency

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6587473/

Betaine in Kidney and Liver Function:
https://karger.com/cpb/article/32/Suppl.%201/32/71803/Betaine-Transport-in-Kidney-and-Liver-Use-of

Betaine in Kidney Function (osmoprotectant)
https://karger.com/cpb/article/32/Suppl.%201/32/71803/Betaine-Transport-in-Kidney-and-Liver-Use-of

Eat Smart, Live Well, Look Great,

Dr. Meschino