Preventing CKD - Kidney Health Education for African, Caribbean and Black Communities

To Know the Basics About Kidney Health

Preventing CKD

To Know the Basics About Kidney Health / Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease

Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease

Most people with CKD are unaware of their condition because symptoms do not usually develop in the early stages of the disease. Generally, by the time symptoms are noticeable, the condition has reached an advanced stage (stage 3 or later), where damage to the kidney(s) is irreversible

Treatment can slow the progression of CKD, and managing risk factors can help prevent CKD.

Steps to take to maintain and improve kidney health

Eat healthy

Consume healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free dairy products based on the discretion of dieticians and healthy dietary standards in your region
Limit salt intake to less than 2,300 mg of sodium daily
It is also advisable to have less than 10% of your daily caloric intake come from sugars
Eat small portions of protein, as too much protein in the blood can overwork kidneys
Eat foods low in phosphorus and potassium since these compounds can build up in your blood with CKD, leading to bone and heart problem

Maintain healthy weight

If you are overweight or obese, working with your healthcare provider and/or dietician can help you to create realistic weight-loss goals and plans that can be achieved.
The NIH Body Weight Planner is a free resource that can be utilized to calculate caloric intake and daily activity.

Maintain routine physical activity

Try to be active for 30 minutes or more per day, and speak to your healthcare provider about exercises and activities suitable for you.

Maintain sufficient sleep

For adults, it is advised to sleep 7 to 8 hours each night. Speak to your healthcare provider if you are having trouble achieving that goal.

Quit smoking

Smoking and the use of tobacco products can increase an individual’s risk of developing kidney disease and should be stopped.

Limit alcohol consumption

Alcohol consumption can lead to increased caloric consumption as well as increase in blood pressure. It is suggested that individuals limit their alcohol consumption

Reduce daily stress

Learning to manage and decrease stress is an essential skill to learn to not only improve kidney health but also general health. Consulting with your physician or healthcare provider regarding tools to help manage stress, relax and cope can help improve physical and emotional health.

Managing diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease

People who have diabetes and or high blood pressure should regularly be followed by their doctor and follow the recommendations of their doctor.
Managing blood glucose levels is key. Regular checks of your blood glucose/blood sugars levels is an important step in managing diabetes. Speak with your healthcare provider for more information on managing your diabetes
Keeping your blood pressure low. The goal for most people with hypertension is to keep t blood pressure levels below 140/90mmHg. Consult with your healthcare provider for more tailored suggestions. Keep cholesterol levels within a healthy range. LDL (bad cholesterol) has been shown to clog arteries within the body and can lead to heart attacks and stroke HDL (good cholesterol) conversely has been shown to help remove LDL, and prevent negative complications.. Therefore, limiting your LDL in favour of HDL consumption can help prevent negative health outcomes.
Regular Test & Checks