A plant-powered journey to renal wellness: Patient triumphs over Membranous Nephropathy and T2DM
- Patient age: 76
- Gender: Male
- Ethnicity: Not disclosed
- BMI: Not disclosed
- Presenting complaints: Membranous Nephropathy, T2DM, Uraemia (hospitalised), and Diabetic Retinopathy
- Outcome: Kidney levels have returned to normal without medication, feeling energised, thriving, and able to exercise at a high level.
This whole food plant-based (WFPB) dietitian encountered a remarkable case that underscores the transformative power of dietary choices in managing complex health conditions. The patient, a resilient 76-year-old male, presented a challenging medical profile marked by Membranous Nephropathy, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), Uraemia (requiring hospitalisation), and Diabetic Retinopathy.
Nutrition diagnosis: navigating uncharted territories
Upon assessment, the dietitian identified a critical nutrition knowledge deficit, exacerbated by the recent adoption of a WFPB diet against the backdrop of membranous nephropathy. His rising albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR) indicated poorly managed conditions with worsening proteinuria (411.4 mg/mmol).
The patient expressed uncertainty about effectively applying nutrition information, a concern highlighted by the absence of prior education on managing chronic conditions with a WFPB diet. The patient's history revealed limited adherence to a "vegan" diet in the past year. Verbalising uncertainty around planning balanced plant-based meals further emphasised the need for targeted nutritional intervention.
Nutrition intervention: planting the seeds of transformation
The dietitian crafted a comprehensive nutrition prescription, prescribing a whole food plant-based diet tailored to achieve adequate energy, protein, dietary fibre, and sodium restriction. The intervention included initiating a B12 supplement, with a dosing schedule provided for seamless integration. Supporting resources, such as Doctors For Nutrition's ‘Going Plant-based’ factsheet and information on plant-based sources of iron and calcium, were provided to enhance the patient's understanding.
Despite facing scepticism from his treating doctor regarding the efficacy of lifestyle interventions for his conditions, the patient displayed unwavering determination. His proactive approach, fueled by personal research on the benefits of a plant-based diet, positioned him as an active participant in his health journey.
Monitoring and evaluation: triumph over health challenges
Months later, the patient reached out to the dietitian with remarkable updates on the impact of his dietary changes. Astonishingly, he reported that his kidneys had returned to the normal range without needing any medication. Embracing a holistic approach to health, he incorporated regular exercise into his routine, utilising dumbbells at work and maintaining fitness at home with his treadmill, rowing machine, and inversion table.
The patient, at the age of 76, defied expectations by maintaining an active lifestyle and even expressing that his diet played the most significant role in his overall wellbeing. In response to sceptics questioning the adequacy of his diet, he confidently referred to the adage "As strong as a bull," emphasising that even powerful creatures like bulls thrive on plant-based diets.
This inspiring journey is a guiding example for practitioners and patients alike, showcasing the profound impact of dietary interventions, determination, and an empowered partnership between clinicians and individuals committed to their health.
Due to medical board regulations, we have removed the clinician's name from this story. However, we understand that clinicians may want to discuss similar cases with each other. If you’d like to connect with the clinician involved in this case, please contact us. With their permission, we’d be happy to provide their details.
