Quest Protein bars

I eat Clif bars every so often check the sugar content I use an app called YUKA on everything I eat religiously and drink a protein shake everyday called Kachava loaded with vitamins many different flavors and it’s a meal for me

I would recommend you consult with your care team before using any supplements. "Whey protein is generally not recommended for kidney transplant recipients unless explicitly approved by your medical team. High-protein supplements can produce excessive nitrogenous waste and elevate phosphorus levels, which can strain a transplanted kidney or dangerously interact with anti-rejection medications."

Hi @jimb43581921 ☺️
Wow, you are extremely knowledgeable. I just asked artificial intelligence about whey protein and kidney transplant. It said that whey protein should be avoided. You are correct! May I ask how you learned about whey protein being a problem?
Many thanks!

Hi @pgruetz ☺️
Thanks so much for the heads up about the YUKA app. I never heard of that app, but it definitely sounds helpful.
The Cliff bars look like they are probably delicious. I have seen them displayed at my supermarket (and maybe they don't have as much whey protein as Quest). I will check the out. What are your favorite flavors?

@hello1234 I suffered acute liver failure and received a transplant in August 2024. The Doctors had no idea why my liver was failing and they still don't know why it failed today. In those 3 short weeks leading up to my transplant, I underwent countless tests and was asked a ton of questions. Many of those questions were focused on infectious diseases as well as what medicines or supplements I may have taken, which was basically nothing. Based on those questions and the discussions that followed , I learned how harmful some supplements can be to your liver and other organs because there isn't enough testing to guarantee they are what they claim to be and the benefits of many aren't supported by science. Basically, I got a crash course on supplements and the overarching message was clear - approach any supplements or processed food with extreme caution.

Over the last few years, I've also learned about the effects of immunosuppressants such as tacrolimus and mycophenelate, which do things like raise blood pressure and glucose levels, and place a significant strain on our kidneys. That impact is plainly visible in post transplant blood tests. I now do whatever I can to ease the burden on my kidneys. I get my vitamins through real food and drink 120 ounces of water per day. Despite the inconvenience, those regular post transplant blood tests can be very beneficial if we use them to evaluate the pros/cons of the lifestyle and dietary changes we make.

@jimb43581921
You are amazing! I can't thank you enough for sharing your story. I now understand the importance of reviewing these protein bars (whey protein) and other supplements with my transplant team.
Also, I didn't think about how some of these ingredients may interact with my Tacrolimis and Cellcept.
I am very happy that I decided to post this question on our Transplant Support Connect. Now that you are two years post transplant, how are feeling?
Did you run into any challenges with your Tacrolimis and Mycophenolate that needed adjustments? I had my dosages adjusted multiple times in the last six years. My transplant was 2020.
Thank you again for sharing all your wonderful knowledge!!

@hello1234 Thank you for your kind words. I came extremely close to dying and often wonder why I was given another chance at life. Honestly, I am still seeking an answer to that question but maybe it was to help others when I can? Who knows, but it does feel good to help others.

Today, my liver function and other blood tests are completely normal with the exception of a slightly elevated glucose number (102).

After about 8 months post transplant, they discontinued my mycophenelate and I really started feeling like my old self. By the end of year one, I put 50 pounds of muscle back on and was running/walking 35 miles per week. My only issue issue now is I have numerous hernias along my incision and I have surgery on Thursday (7/9) to repair them with mesh.

Over the last two years, I haven't had any real problems with the immunosuppressants, but I've learned that the dosage reductions certainly lead to higher energy levels as does being very disciplined in taking them on time. My team is keeping my tacrolimus level in the 5-7 range for now and my energy level is very good.

Best regards,
Jim

@jimb43581921
I wish you all good results with your upcoming hernia operation on the 9th.
I think that's a very common problem after transplant surgery. Are you having the hernia repair at your transplant center or a local hospital?
It's wonderful news that are down to only Tacrolimis (range 5 to 7). I still take Mycophenolate with my TAC (range 6 to 8).
Please keep me posted on how you are doing after your hernia surgery. It sounds like you are doing terrific with your exercise and diet. I am sure the hernia repair will be a piece of cake.
I am going to use you as a role model and try harder to improve my exerciseand diet! It's a pleasure to meet you Jim.

@hello1234 Thank you. It has been nice to meet you as well. The surgery is being done at NY Presbyterian Hospital by their Hernia Center in conjunction with my Liver Team from NYP. I'll let you know how it goes.