Protocol · Kidney & Urinary Health
Acute Kidney Injury Recovery Support Protocol
Vitamin E and N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) are the core of this stack, with 5 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Acute Kidney Injury Recovery Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
7 supplements · 1 graded
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| Vitamin E | Amount listed: 400–800 IU daily (mixed tocopherols) | Antioxidant protection against ischemia-reperfusion injury; may protect kidney tubules during AKI
| Grade B for Acute Kidney Injury Incidence357 people | |
| N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) | Amount listed: 600–1,200 mg twice daily (especially around contrast exposure) | Glutathione precursor; antioxidant that may protect against contrast-induced and drug-induced nephrotoxicity | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 1–2 g EPA+DHA daily | Anti-inflammatory effects may reduce kidney inflammation and support recovery | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin C | Amount listed: 250–500 mg daily (avoid high doses - oxalate risk) | Antioxidant that may protect against oxidative stress during AKI; use moderate doses only | Not graded yet | |
| Bicarbonate (Sodium Bicarbonate) | Amount listed: Per physician guidance for AKI prevention protocols | Alkalinization may protect against contrast and drug nephrotoxicity in certain settings | Not graded yet | |
| Coenzyme Q10 | Amount listed: 100–200 mg daily | Mitochondrial support and antioxidant; may support cellular energy during kidney recovery | Not graded yet | |
| Alpha-Lipoic Acid | Amount listed: 300–600 mg daily | Antioxidant that regenerates other antioxidants; may protect against nephrotoxic injury | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden decrease in kidney function that occurs over hours to days. It can be caused by reduced blood flow to the kidneys (dehydration, heart failure, blood loss), direct kidney damage (medications, contrast dye, toxins, infections), or urinary tract obstruction. AKI is diagnosed by a rise in creatinine or decrease in urine output. While many cases of AKI are reversible, severe or prolonged AKI can lead to chronic kidney disease.
CRITICAL: AKI is a serious medical condition requiring immediate medical management. Treatment depends on the cause and may include IV fluids, stopping nephrotoxic medications, and sometimes dialysis. This protocol is for SUPPORTIVE CARE during recovery or PREVENTION in high-risk situations (e.g., before contrast dye procedures) - NOT for treating active AKI without medical supervision. Many supplements need dose adjustment or should be avoided in kidney impairment. ALWAYS consult a nephrologist before using supplements with kidney disease.
Vitamin E* is an antioxidant that may help protect kidney cells from oxidative damage during ischemia-reperfusion injury, which is common in AKI. Some studies suggest it may help prevent contrast-induced nephropathy.
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)* is a precursor to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. It has been studied extensively for preventing contrast-induced nephropathy. While evidence is mixed, it's often used prophylactically before contrast procedures in high-risk patients.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids* have anti-inflammatory properties that may support kidney recovery by reducing inflammation.
Vitamin C* at moderate doses provides antioxidant protection. However, high doses should be avoided in kidney disease due to oxalate accumulation risk.
Sodium Bicarbonate* alkalinization is sometimes used in hospital protocols to prevent contrast and certain drug-induced nephrotoxicity.
CoQ10* supports mitochondrial function in kidney cells, which require significant energy for filtration and reabsorption.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid* is an antioxidant that may help protect kidney cells from toxic and ischemic injury.
Expected timeline: AKI recovery depends on cause and severity. Mild AKI may recover in days to weeks. More severe cases may take weeks to months, and some patients may have residual kidney impairment. Supplements support recovery but don't accelerate it.