Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition characterized by gradual loss of kidney function over time. It is a slow process with few symptoms initially, making early detection and management crucial.

What Defines CKD?

CKD is classified into five stages based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which measures how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood. Stage 3 CKD is further subdivided into:

Stage 3A: Mild to moderate loss of kidney function (eGFR 45-59 mL/min)

Stage 3B: Moderate to severe loss of kidney function (eGFR 30-44 mL/min)

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms may start to appear in Stage 3A but are typically not present or very mild. 

They can include changes in urination frequency, itchy and dry skin, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, and unexplained weight loss. Diagnosis involves eGFR and urine tests, like the urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR), to check for kidney function and damage​​.

Treatment and Lifestyle Adjustments

Treatment aims to slow the progression and manage symptoms. This includes controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels, quitting smoking, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress. 

Dietary changes are also crucial. Reducing sodium, potassium, and phosphorus intake based on your doctor's recommendations can help manage CKD. Consulting with a kidney dietitian can provide personalized dietary advice and help integrate these changes into your lifestyle​​​​.

 

Metabolic Health and Kidney Disease

Metabolic health plays a significant role in Kidney Disease, especially since conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can lead to or worsen kidney disease. Managing these conditions through lifestyle changes and medication can significantly impact CKD progression and overall health​​.

Ketogenic Metabolic Therapy

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential benefits of a ketogenic diet in managing kidney disease.

From The Clinical Kidney Journal, Volume 17, Issue 1, January 2024: 

Ketogenic metabolic therapy for chronic kidney disease 

Thomas Weimbs, Jessianna Saville, Kamyar Kalantar-Zadeh

“A randomized controlled trial comparing a 2-year intervention with a ketogenic (low carbohydrate, high fat/protein) diet versus a Mediterranean diet versus a conventional low fat diet in 322 overweight or obese participants with mild–moderate CKD (stages 1–3) showed that the dietary interventions led to weight loss and improved renal function. The ketogenic diet generally had the greatest beneficial effect on renal function, especially in participants with CKD stage 3.”

Remember, CKD management is highly personalized. Regular monitoring and collaboration with your healthcare team are key to effectively managing the disease and maintaining a good quality of life.

To find an experienced renal dietitian: https://santabarbaranutrients.com/pages/find-a-practitioner

Learn more about diet and lifestyle changes for Kidney Disease here: https://santabarbaranutrients.com/pages/find-a-practitioner

For expert advice on nutrition for Kidney Disease visit the Kidney Nutrition Institute: https://kidneynutritioninstitute.org/