Impact of Nutritional Supplements on Kidney Health in Cancer Patients

Does consuming nutritional supplements, such as Ensure, have any effects or side effects on the kidneys?

My mother-in-law is currently suffering from colon cancer and has lost a significant amount of weight after several treatments.
Therefore, our family is considering adding nutritional supplements, specifically Ensure, to help balance her nutrition.
My sister-in-law inquired with a pharmacist at the pharmacy about the suitability of this nutritional supplement for my mother-in-law.
The pharmacist advised that this product may not be suitable for her and could have negative effects on her kidneys, thus recommending against its use.
However, we have researched extensively and found that there is no evidence indicating that nutritional supplements like Ensure have adverse effects on kidney function.
As a result, our family has not yet given this product to my mother-in-law.
We would like to request some advice and analysis from a nutritionist to help us make an informed decision about whether to proceed with this supplement for her.
Thank you.

Jin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/06/04

Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition

Hello! For patients with colorectal cancer who have normal kidney function, if they experience significant weight loss due to poor appetite or absorption caused by treatment or the disease, supplementing with commercial balanced nutritional formulas (such as Ensure) is a very good approach.
With appropriate intake, patients will not experience adverse effects on their kidneys from consuming these balanced nutritional formulas; rather, it will be beneficial for their nutritional supplementation.
(In this regard, it is indeed advisable to consult a nutritionist, as pharmacists specialize in medications.
Particularly, community pharmacists may lack expertise in nutrition and may have profit considerations when recommending nutritional products.) However, if the patient has abnormal kidney function (which must be determined through testing rather than personal subjective assessment), it is best to consult a nutritionist in person with a complete examination report to allow for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate dietary recommendations.
Sincerely, Dietitian Shih Kuei-Mei, Director of the Nutrition Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2005/06/04

More Info

When considering the impact of nutritional supplements, such as Ensure (亞培安素), on kidney health in cancer patients, it is essential to evaluate both the nutritional needs of the patient and the specific health conditions they are facing. In your case, your grandmother is suffering from colon cancer and has experienced significant weight loss due to her illness and treatment. This situation often necessitates the use of nutritional supplements to help maintain her strength and overall health.

Firstly, Ensure is a commercially available nutritional supplement designed to provide balanced nutrition, including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. For patients who are experiencing weight loss and difficulty in maintaining adequate nutrition due to cancer or its treatment, such supplements can be beneficial. They are particularly useful for patients with diminished appetite or those who are unable to consume sufficient calories through regular food.

Regarding the concerns raised by the pharmacist about the potential negative impact of Ensure on kidney health, it is important to clarify that these concerns are generally more relevant for patients who already have pre-existing kidney issues. For patients with normal kidney function, consuming Ensure in appropriate amounts typically does not pose a risk to kidney health. In fact, for patients with cancer who are undergoing treatment, ensuring adequate caloric and protein intake is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.

However, if your grandmother has any underlying kidney issues, such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), the situation would be different. In such cases, the intake of protein and certain nutrients may need to be monitored and adjusted based on her kidney function. It is essential to have her kidney function assessed through blood tests, which can provide valuable information about her glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and overall kidney health. If her kidney function is normal, then using Ensure as a nutritional supplement should be safe and beneficial.

It is also worth noting that pharmacists and dietitians have different areas of expertise. Pharmacists are primarily focused on medications and their interactions, while dietitians specialize in nutrition and dietary recommendations. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a registered dietitian who can provide tailored nutritional advice based on your grandmother's specific health status and dietary needs.

In summary, if your grandmother's kidney function is normal, using Ensure can be a helpful way to provide her with the necessary nutrients to combat weight loss and support her overall health during her cancer treatment. However, if there are any concerns about her kidney health, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate her condition and provide appropriate dietary recommendations. Always prioritize personalized care and ensure that any nutritional interventions are aligned with her overall treatment plan.

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