Introduction

Thank you for your question and for sharing your husband's journey with chronic kidney disease (CKD). It's great to see you exploring supportive options like Fundaminos and educating yourself along the way.

Key Differences in Protein Content

Here’s the key difference between the 5 g and 20 g numbers you’ve seen:

• 5 g: This refers to the actual weight of the amino acids in a serving of Fundaminos.
• 20 g Protein Equivalence: This reflects the "usable protein" your body can synthesize from those amino acids.

Why the Difference?

Fundaminos contains essential amino acids (EAAs) in a highly bioavailable form, meaning your husband’s body can utilize almost all of it for protein synthesis. In contrast, typical dietary protein has a lower utilization rate, with only a portion being used to build or repair tissue, while the rest is metabolized, producing waste like urea.

This distinction is particularly important for CKD patients on a low-protein diet, as reduced protein metabolism lowers the burden on the kidneys.

How to Count Fundaminos in His Diet

For tracking his dietary protein, you could count it as 5 g per serving since that reflects the actual amino acid content you're giving him. This number won't conflict with his nephrologist's guidance to limit protein intake.

However, keep in mind that the 20 g equivalence is what his body is "getting" in terms of protein synthesis benefits. This is why Fundaminos is often recommended in CKD to help maintain muscle mass and overall health without overloading the kidneys.

Additionally, since virtually none of the EAAs are excreted by the kidneys, providing 99% anabolic benefits and no phosphorus, many do not count Fundaminos as part of their daily protein load and can even reduce that intake, as the EAA blend provides all necessary amino acids.

Itching and CKD

Severe itching in CKD (uremic pruritus) can stem from elevated phosphorus levels or other imbalances. It's essential to monitor his labs and work with his healthcare provider to manage these symptoms. While Fundaminos won't directly address phosphorus levels, it may help improve his nutritional balance, which could indirectly reduce symptoms.

Conclusion

I hope this helps clarify how to count Fundaminos in his diet. Wishing you both the best during this trial period—please keep me updated on how he's doing!