top of page

Kidney Health

What is Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease means that there is damage to your kidneys and they are not working as well as they should i.e: your kidneys aren't working properly. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) means your kidney function slowly gets worse with time. High blood pressure and diabetes are two common causes of CKD. There is no cure for CKD, but you can take steps to preserve function for as long as possible. Late-stage kidney disease requires dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Image by Robina Weermeijer
Image by Hush Naidoo Jade Photography

5 Stages of Kidney Disease

  • Stage 1: 90% > of normal kidney function

  • Stage 2: 60% - 89% of normal kidney function

  • Stage 3: 30% - 59% of normal kidney function

  • Stage 4: 15% - 29% of normal kidney function

  • Stage 5: < 15% of normal kidney function

Causes of CKD include:

  • Diabetes

  • Hypertension

  • Glomerulonephritis

  • Genetic disease

​

Symptoms of CKD include:

  • A need to urinate more often

  • Loss of appetite

  • Tiredness, weakness, low energy

  • Swollen hands, feet, and ankles

  • Dry and itchy skin

Early detection and appropriate treatment are important in slowing the disease process. If you feel that you or a love one may have kidney disease, please see your health care provider today!

Kidney Friendly Diet

  • Choose fresh meats, eggs and fish

  • Utilize fresh herbs such as lemons, pepper, thyme, onion, basil, oregano and others when seasoning foods to add a dash of flavor

  • Eat fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables like the kidney friendly ones mentioned above

  • If you have a sweet craving, eat fruit or opt to bake at home

Healthy Salad
bottom of page