Cardiovascular disease is one of the conditions more frequently reported as occurring concomitantly in those suffering from chronic kidney disease. Although there are many risk factors which occur in those dealing with CKD that are simultaneously risk factors for developing heart disease, such as diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, etc. there are also non-traditional risk factors which stem from problems related to CKD, such as mineral deficiencies and vitamin D metabolic disorders.
Certain toxins, specifically, indoxyl sylfate and p-cresol sulfate are produced in the liver by colonic microorganisms and can cause both kidney and cardiac problems. A specific plasma trimethylamine-N-oxide, which is a gut microbe-dependent metabolite of dietary L-carnitine and choline is found in elevated levels in cases of CKD and is also associated with cardiovascular disease and poorer prognosis.
It is for this reason that modulating colonic flora can improve outlooks for those living with chronic kidney problems. As far as preventing cardiovascular complications, management of things such as metabolic syndrome, abnormal mineral metabolism and anemia are crucial. Some of the latest research has suggested that Resveratrol, a drug commonly used to treat Alzheimer’s may also provide benefit to those living with chronic kidney and heart issues.
How? Resveratrol is what’s known as a polyphenol which acts as an antioxidant, protecting against the kind of cellular damage connected to certain diseases like cardiovascular disease and even certain cancers. It’s often found naturally in grape skin, peanuts and certain berries. It’s this antioxidant property that has been seen to provide heart benefits by helping improve vascular and diastolic function, cardiac remodeling and myocardial energetics as well as reducing cardiac fibrosis. In kidney disease, studies have identified significantly reduced serum creatinine levels, better filtration, improved kidney function and well-maintained GFR in those patients being treated with Resveratrol.
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