Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)? Are you concerned about CKD management? Do you feel overwhelmed with all the diet restrictions? Read this article to get some basic idea about CKD management and nutrition tips.
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located below the rib cage, one on each side. Kidneys remove wastes, control the fluid, minerals and electrolytes balance in the body, and make hormones that help control blood pressure, make red blood cells and keep bones strong and healthy.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a chronic disease where the kidneys gradually lose their function, leading to a buildup of toxic wastes, fluids and electrolytes or minerals in the body. The most common causes of CKD are poorly controlled diabetes and hypertension.
The goal for CKD management is to slow down the progression of kidney function loss. Based on current research, we don’t know of any way to reverse the functional decline of the kidneys. Uncontrolled CKD can progress to end-stage kidney disease (ESRD) and patients may need dialysis or kidney transplant at that time. During the management of CKD, nutrition plays an important role. When you are at different stages of CKD, the dietary recommendations would be different.
Eating the right amount of protein, sodium, potassium and phosphorus can help control the dangerous fluid and electrolytes buildup in the body.
Here are some links to kidney-friendly recipes:
Always talk to your healthcare providers first about the recommended diet plan that is suitable for your condition.