Lecture Notes: Glen's Health Journey and Kidney Disease Management

Introduction

• Speaker: Glenn, from the Mr. Craftyman channel
• Focus: Personal health journey related to stage four kidney disease
• Disclaimer: Not a medical professional, personal experience shared

Background

• Diagnosed with stage four kidney disease on April 21st
  • GFR initially at 25; improved to 67
• History of type 2 diabetes (14 years), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, and obesity (215 pounds)
• Difficulty accessing veteran healthcare during COVID-19

Initial Diagnosis and Reaction

• Misdiagnosis of stage three kidney disease, later corrected to stage four
• Initial lab results: GFR of 25, BUN of 81
• Recommended for immediate dialysis, Glenn opted to delay due to personal commitments
• Significant lifestyle change initiated

Lifestyle and Diet Changes

Weight Management

• Target weight set at 160 pounds (current weight approximately 160)
• Caloric intake adjusted to maintain target weight

Diet Adjustments

• Transition to plant-based diet upon advice
• Focus on eliminating sugar, reducing protein intake (especially animal protein)
• Specific products and foods:
  • Plant-based sausage patties, bacon, and ranch dressing from Walmart
  • Specific breads with low carb count (Net 2 or Net 3)

Essential Nutritional Information

• Calories: Maintain calorie deficit to lose weight
• Protein: Maintain low protein intake, focus on plant-based sources
• Carbohydrates and Sugar: Avoid sugar, monitor carbs because they convert to sugar
• Sodium and Fiber: Monitor carefully

Physical Activity

• Regular exercise routine, primarily using elliptical trainer
• Emphasis on cardio fitness to manage blood pressure and support kidney function

Tools and Resources

Diabetes Management

• Use of Freestyle Libre 2 for continuous glucose monitoring
• Understanding of Dawn Phenomenon (morning blood sugar rise)

Supplements and Products

• Medical foods: Keto Rena & Albuterix for protein management
• Kidney Restore supplement for kidney health

Results and Reflections

• Significant improvement in health markers:
  • GFR increased to 67
  • A1C reduced from 8.4 to 5.2
• Off all medications by end of June
• Improvement in sleep apnea

Final Thoughts

• Emphasis on the importance of lifestyle change, not just temporary measures
• Encouragement to adopt a plant-based, low-protein diet
• Importance of exercise and maintaining hydration

Conclusion

• Glenn shares contact information and encourages viewers to track their health progress
• Plans to continue sharing his journey and results
• Encouragement for audience to share the information with others affected by similar health issues