Lifestyle and Diet changes in Kidney Disease

When you’re diagnosed with kidney disease, one of the first questions that often comes up is “Can lifestyle really make a difference?” The answer is—yes, the right lifestyle and dietary changes can go a long way in supporting your kidneys and overall well-being. To help you navigate this, here are a few important dietary changes and lifestyle tips that can make a real impact on your kidney health.

How Can You Protect Your Kidneys Every Day?

Protecting your kidneys starts with managing the factors that put them at risk. Here are some essential tips to support your kidney health:

Control Diabetes

Keeping your blood sugar within a healthy range is crucial to protect your kidneys from further damage.

• Maintain HbA1c around 7%
• Follow dietary advice and take medications as prescribed

Manage Blood Pressure

High blood pressure speeds up kidney damage—keeping it in check is essential.

• Target BP: below 130/80 mmHg
• Use a home BP monitor regularly
• Follow the DASH diet: fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, nuts
• Exercise: 30 minutes/day, 5 times/week can lower BP by 5–10 mmHg

Maintain a Healthy Weight
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on your kidneys and heart.

• Target BMI: 18.5 to 24.9
• Physical activity: At least 150 minutes/week
• Every 10 kg weight loss may reduce BP by 5–20 mmHg

Quit Smoking

• Stopping smoking is one of the most important steps to slow kidney decline and lower heart disease risk.
• Smoking increases the speed of kidney decline and raises heart disease risk

Avoid NSAIDs

Some painkillers can harm your kidneys, so use them cautiously.

• Limit or avoid medications like aceclofenac, diclofenac, naproxen, ibuprofen
• Use only under medical supervision

What Dietary Changes Should You Make with CKD?

Limit Protein Intake

• Less than 0.8–1 g/kg body weight per day
• High-protein foods to moderate: chicken, eggs, lentils, beans, nuts, milk

Control Sodium (Salt) Intake

• Recommended: 5–6 grams/day
• Avoid pickles, chips, processed foods, and packaged snacks

Avoid Phosphate-Rich Foods

• Processed cheese, dark sodas, packaged meats, fast food
• High phosphate can weaken bones and cause blood vessel calcification

Limit Vitamin C Supplements

• Excess vitamin C may increase oxalate levels, harming kidneys

Eat Fresh, Not Stored Food

• Home-cooked, low-salt, fresh meals are best

By following these tips consistently, you can stay active and protect your kidney health for the long term. If you have questions or feel unsure about where to start, remember—you don’t have to navigate this alone. At Kidneyfy, our dedicated team is ready to guide you with practical advice tailored to your needs.