by Shannon DW

Making changes to lifestyle habits can help slow chronic kidney disease (CKD). These changes can also lower the risk of other health problems from CKD. The changes that need to be made will depend on the stage of CKD and any other health problems a person has. Here are some changes that may need to be made:

Eat a Healthful Diet

Eating a healthful diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help manage CKD. Some people with CKD may also need to limit things that make CKD worse, such as:

  • Sodium
  • Protein
  • Phosphorus—A mineral found in some foods
  • Fat

    • Reach or Maintain a Healthy Weight

    Excess weight or obesity can worsen CKD. People with CKD should take steps to reach or maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.

    Avoid Smoking

    Smoking makes CKD worse. People who smoke should talk to their doctors about ways to quit .

    References

    Chronic kidney disease. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/genitourinary-disorders/chronic-kidney-disease/chronic-kidney-disease. Accessed April 6, 2022.

    Chronic kidney disease. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd. Accessed April 6, 2022.

    Chronic kidney disease (CKD). Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/condition/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd. Accessed April 6, 2022.

    Overview of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/overview-of-chronic-kidney-disease-ckd-in-adults. Accessed April 6, 2022.

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