Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major global public health issue. It is the 6th leading cause of death in 2020, with more than 500,000 deaths per year worldwide. Moreover, it is estimated that about 20% of the world’s population will have some form of kidney disease by the year 2050.
The rise in global temperatures because of climate change is likely to aggravate the current situation. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that there are several risk factors that can lead to CKD, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. In addition, a diet low in fruits and vegetables, and high in processed meats and sugar may also contribute to the development of chronic kidney disease.
CKD and Nutrition
Most adults with CKD are obese or overweight. This greatly increases their risk of developing complications such as heart disease and diabetes mellitus. Moreover, being overweight or obese in general is linked to an increased risk of developing kidney disease. Therefore, it is of vital importance to a patient with CKD to lose weight and gain healthier habits.
There is no specific diet for patients with CKD. However, there is a wide array of evidence-based guidelines that a patient with CKD may follow to minimize their risks. A diet that is low in sodium, high in fiber, and free of the usual culprits, which include meat, potatoes, and other starchy foods, is commonly recommended for these patients. This will assist in slowing the progression of kidney disease and helping patients to maintain a healthier weight.
Dietary Guidelines For Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
The dietary guidelines below are intended for patients with chronic kidney disease who are on or have changed to an advanced stage of the disease:
Eat Less Potassium
Healthy kidneys need sufficient supply of potassium. This mineral is important for bone health and for the normal functioning of the heart. People with CKD often have low serum levels of potassium, which can lead to several fatal arrhythmias and heart attacks. The solution is quite simple – eat less potassium-rich foods. Some examples include beans, lentils, tomatoes, and potatoes. These foods provide vital nutrients and are high in fiber, helping to keep the digestive system healthy. They also assist in the formation of stomach acid, which breaks down food so that it can be absorbed by the body. The takeaway message is quite simple – eat less potassium-rich foods and you will be doing your kidneys a favor!
Eat More Fruits And Vegetables
The general recommendation for patients with CKD is to increase their intake of fruits and vegetables. The reasoning behind this is that the diet is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which boost the bodies’ natural defense systems. Furthermore, vegetables and fruits contain high levels of antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals and other toxins that contribute to the aging process. These antioxidants may lower a person’s risk of developing diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and heart disease. Some studies even suggest that eating fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of diabetic complications by 23% and cardiovascular complications by 22%, respectively. The takeaway message is quite simple – eat more fruits and vegetables and you will be doing your body a favor!
Reduce Your Animal Protein Intake
The majority of dietary protein in the form of meat and other animal products is harmful to patients with chronic kidney disease. High-quality protein in the diet will result in the formation of antibodies, which activate the immune system and lead to inflammation. This creates further damage to the kidneys, which ultimately leads to progressive kidney disease. The solution is quite simple – reduce your animal protein intake and you will be doing your body a favor! Some research has even shown that a vegan diet may halt the progression of CKD.
Avoid The Occasions Of Morning Coffee
It is well known that coffee is extremely harmful to the kidneys. Patients with CKD are specifically advised against consuming this beverage due to its high caffeine content. This compound gives the body’s nervous system a temporary boost, which can lead to over-stimulation and damage to the kidneys. The solution is quite simple – avoid consuming coffee in the morning, as this will interfere with sleep, which is essential for health. Moreover, coffee is acidic and encourages the growth of bacteria in the digestive system. The takeaway message is quite simple – avoid coffee and you will be doing your body a favor!
Opt For Filtered Water And No Soda
Patients with CKD should drink plenty of water, which aids in the removal of toxins from the system. However, these individuals should refrain from drinking soda, as it is highly acidic and can aggravate the condition. Furthermore, too much soda will speed the process of dehydration, which in turn, will lead to more complications. The solution is quite simple – drink filtered water and avoid soda. Moreover, the water should be fresh, as bacteria will flourish in old water. The takeaway message is quite simple – drink filtered water and avoid soda, as this will help maintain a healthier weight and minimize your risks of developing kidney disease.
The dietary guidelines below are intended for patients with chronic kidney disease who are on or have changed to a low-risk diet:
Consume More Fruits And Vegetables
As noted above, the general recommendation for patients with CKD is to increase their intake of fruits and vegetables. The reasoning behind this is that the diet is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which boost the bodies’ natural defense systems. In addition, vegetables and fruits contain high levels of antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals and other toxins that contribute to the aging process. These antioxidants may lower a person’s risk of developing diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and heart disease. Some studies even suggest that eating fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of diabetic complications by 23% and cardiovascular complications by 22%, respectively. The takeaway message is quite simple – consume more fruits and vegetables and you will be doing your body a favor!
Eat More Dairy And Eggs
Dairy products such as milk and cheese contain the essential nutrient, calcium. This mineral is vital for strong bones and teeth, as well as for the formation of strong muscles. It also plays a crucial role in nerve impulse transmission and the functioning of the heart. For these reasons, patients with CKD are advised to eat more dairy products. The vitamin D content in dairy products ensures that the body’s active form, which is needed for calcium absorption, is present in sufficient amounts. Moreover, eggs contain vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including choline, which is needed for the proper functioning of the nervous system. For these reasons, patients with CKD should eat more eggs. Moreover, eggs help to improve skin tone and texture, and eliminate bad breath. The egg yolk contains high levels of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, vitamin K, and vitamin A. This nutrient may also reduce inflammation and promote good health.
Reduce Your Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol has been shown to be among the major factors that contribute to the development of chronic kidney disease. This substance is acidic, and consumes important nutrients in the body. Moreover, it encourages the growth of bacteria in the digestive system. This may result in poor digestion, which in turn, can lead to several health issues. The solution is quite simple – reduce your alcohol consumption. Moreover, it is advisable for patients with kidney disease to avoid this substance, as it may also interfere with drug treatments, especially if these treatments are glucocorticoid steroids. The takeaway message is quite simple – reduce your alcohol consumption and you will be doing your body a favor!
Consume More Oils And Butter
Healthy kidneys need sufficient supply of essential fatty acids. This includes omega-3 fatty acids in the form of seafood (e.g., fish, shrimp, and algae) and plant oils (e.g., soybean and flaxseed). Some examples of foods that contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids are fatty seafood, plant oils, and nuts. However, foods from the animal kingdom (e.g., eggs, poultry, and red meat) contain saturated fats, which may increase the chances of developing kidney disease. The solution is quite simple – reduce your intake of foods from the animal kingdom. Instead, you should consume more seafood, plant oils, and nuts. The takeaway message is quite simple – reduce your saturated fat and omega-3 intake, and you will be doing your body a favor!