Amyloidosis involves the buildup of abnormal protein deposits, called amyloid, in organs and tissues, commonly affecting the heart, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. These deposits interfere with normal organ function. While diet cannot cure amyloidosis, specific adjustments help manage symptoms and reduce strain on compromised organs. These guidelines are not a substitute for professional medical advice; consultation with a registered dietitian is mandatory for a personalized plan.
Dietary Avoidance Related to Inflammation and Protein Load
Inflammation is problematic for individuals with amyloidosis, especially types linked to chronic inflammatory conditions like AA amyloidosis. Minimizing foods that promote systemic inflammation helps reduce overall bodily stress. This includes highly processed foods, which often contain refined sugars and excessive unhealthy fats.
Refined sugars found in sodas, candies, and commercial baked goods trigger inflammatory pathways and should be strictly limited. Foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fried foods and fast foods, also contribute to inflammation and cardiovascular risk. Excessive alcohol consumption is a known irritant that affects several organ systems and should be minimized or avoided. Focusing on whole, unprocessed ingredients supports a healthier internal environment.
Managing protein intake is necessary when amyloid deposits have compromised kidney function. Since kidneys filter waste products from protein digestion, excessive protein can overwork a damaged organ. For those with significant renal involvement, high-protein supplements or overly large servings of protein-rich foods may need careful portioning based on physician guidance. Any restriction must be carefully balanced to prevent malnutrition, as protein remains necessary for health.
Restrictions for Cardiac and Renal Health
When amyloid infiltrates the heart or kidneys, strict dietary modifications are necessary to manage complications. The most immediate concern for cardiovascular health is sodium intake, which must be severely limited to prevent fluid retention. Individuals with cardiac involvement typically restrict sodium consumption to between 1,500 and 2,000 milligrams per day.
Avoiding high-sodium foods is paramount because sodium causes the body to retain water, leading to fluid buildup that stresses the heart, causing edema and pulmonary congestion. Reading nutrition labels and choosing fresh ingredients over processed ones is essential for controlling sodium levels.
High-Sodium Foods to Avoid
- Canned soups
- Cured and processed meats
- Salty snacks
- Fast food
- Most packaged or convenience foods
Fluid intake must also be managed in cases of advanced cardiac amyloidosis to prevent circulatory overload. Patients are often prescribed a strict daily fluid limit, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2 liters per day. This limit encompasses all liquids, including water, soups, and beverages. Adhering to this restriction reduces the burden on the heart and enhances the effectiveness of diuretic medications.
If blood tests indicate kidney failure, restrictions on minerals like potassium and phosphorus may become necessary. Damaged kidneys struggle to excrete these minerals, leading to high blood levels. This can cause serious complications, such as heart rhythm abnormalities from high potassium or weak bones from high phosphorus. High-potassium foods like bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, and oranges may need to be limited.
Phosphorus is naturally found in many foods, but the body absorbs it more readily from additives in processed foods. Patients may need to limit foods high in phosphorus, such as dairy products, nuts, and dark-colored sodas. Restriction of these minerals is highly individualized and should only be implemented when blood tests confirm elevated levels, guided by a nephrologist and dietitian.
Foods That Irritate the Digestive System
Amyloid deposits in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can impair motility and nutrient absorption, leading to symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, or pain. To soothe an irritated GI system, avoid foods known to aggravate the stomach lining or slow digestion. This includes overly spicy foods and acidic items, such as citrus fruits or tomato-based products, which exacerbate heartburn and general discomfort.
Excessively greasy or high-fat foods, including heavy creams and fatty cuts of meat, are difficult and slow for the GI tract to digest, potentially worsening bloating and nausea. Caffeine and alcohol also irritate the stomach lining and are best avoided or minimized when GI symptoms are present. Opting for small, frequent meals of bland, easily digestible foods helps manage symptoms.
While dietary fiber is usually beneficial, high-roughage foods can be problematic when the GI tract is compromised. Hard-to-digest foods like raw vegetables, tough meats, and certain whole grains can slow a sluggish digestive system. In such cases, modify the diet to include well-cooked, softer vegetables and lean, tender proteins to provide necessary nutrition without excessive irritation.