Medicines utilized in the treatment of acid reflux, heartburn, ulcers and related gastro issues could be leading to a much higher risk of bone fractures among CKD patients who receive dialysis. In a recent study published in Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, nearly three quarters of CKD patients with hip fractures stated they’d used one of these medicines at least 3 years prior to their fracture.  

This escalation in risk factor is especially bad for people with kidney disease, as they already face a much greater risk of hip fractures and bone fractures, nearly four times higher than that faced by the general population. This isn’t the first time proton pump inhibitors have been cited as being dangerous for CKD patients, with entire lawsuits emerging from their potentially dangerous effects against kidneys.

Amongst patients receiving dialysis, proton pump inhibitors are the sixth most commonly prescribed drug and this is especially disconcerting once you realize how dangerous they may be.

What natural steps can one take to minimize the risk of developing hip fractures and weaker bones in general? Here are a few ideas:

• Calcium supplements and calcium-rich foods as your kidney diet permits can help you maintain stronger bones which are more resistant to breaks and fractures.

• Vitamin D. Getting sufficient Vitamin D, the “sunshine” vitamin from sunlight exposure and/or supplementation and certain dietary sources such as yogurts and certain cereals can help your bones stay strong.

• Magnesium supplements and dietary choices such as peas and soy products.

• Fish oil. The Omega-3 DHA fatty acid has been shown in research studies to provide a significant improvement in bone mineral density and content, so a fish oil supplement should definitely be part of your bone-protection regimen. 

If you are a CKD patient and do have GERD or any kind of issue which doctors feel necessitate the use of a PPI, you may want to discuss potential alternatives.

Here are a couple different natural remedies for assorted gastric problems that may be a viable substitute for PPI use depending on the severity of your symptoms and your physician’s opinion.

• Drinking Ginger Tea

•  Licorice supplements that offer relief from gas and bloating. 

•  Slippery elm bark as a supplement or as a tea could provide relief to mucous membranes.

•  Using probiotics can help with digestive issues resulting from specific food triggers.

• So can monitoring your diet! Simply reducing high-acid foods, dairy, coffee, high fat or spicy foods can make a big difference.

With these tips in mind, you can better navigate the hidden pitfalls of CKD such as enhanced fracture risk and the dangers of PPIs. And, if you’re looking for more info about managing life as a CKD patient, then you definitely need to be checking us out on FaceBook and Pinterest.