Dr Haluk

8 Diet and Nutrition Goals for People with Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease

CKD can be a challenge for patients, but it is not a death sentence and they can continue having a good quality of life if well managed. With stage 3 CKD, your kidneys are only partly impaired meaning that you can still control the damage with control in diet. For this reason, if you adapt certain changes to your diet, then you should be able to maintain your kidney health, your symptoms and your general wellbeing. There are 8 common diet and nutrition goals that can help patients with Stage 3 chronic Kidney disease to live a well- balanced life.

What is CKD?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), therefore, stands for a permanent decline of kidney function but still progresses step by step. Working kidneys in a body serve to clean the blood by extracting waste products and liquid from it. They also help maintain electrolyte concentration, hormone production, and the number of red blood cells. The kidneys, though, when they get compromised or diseased, cannot perform all these functions as expected. Notably, CKD has developed in stages, and its third stage means that the patients have low kidney function.

1. Manage Your Calorie Intake

Both the patients keeping CKD under control and the patients experiencing progressive muscle loss need to consume enough daily calories, regardless of whether their goal is to lose or gain weight. Thus, a registered dietitian will be able to estimate the number of required calories according to the given activity level and body parameters. Just keep in mind that one must remain loyal to this method to realize positive results. Concentrate on healthy eating at all times so that your body will have the necessary energy supply for optimal operation.

2. Choose Healthy Fats

The inclusion of healthy fats provides evidence of this assertion in the diet. It’s thus important to note that fats are not all bad for your health; while the saturated and trans fats contained in foods such as fried foods, processed meats, and pastries are actually enemies to your health, the sources of the unsaturated fat from olive oil, avocados, and fatty fish are your friends. It makes good fats in your diet supply nutrients to the body, reduces the risks of coronary diseases, and reduces hunger, which would assist in dealing with the issue of obesity.

3. Be Mindful Of Fluid Intake

There are several complications that can occur in Stage 3 CKD, and one of them is that the body starts to retain fluid. Focused on the danger of the buildup of fluids, your doctor will propose a particular plan to address this issue. This is not necessarily about getting dehydrated – they just are insisting on careful drinking and not exceeding the recommended intake. Avoid carbonated beverages and alcohol and prefer water while also being vigilant of liquids in certain foods such as fruits and vegetables, soups, etc.

4. Reduce Phosphorus Intake

The healthy kidneys are capable of maintaining the optimum levels of phosphorus within the human body since it is a mineral. However, with reduced kidney function, individuals can develop a buildup of phosphorus in the blood, and this brings problems with the bones and other related complications. Reducing phosphorus consumption would be wise, and other measures should be observed as well. This includes ensuring that one has limited intakes of some of the foods rich in phosphorus, such as dairy products, organ meats, some nuts and seeds, and processed foods containing phosphorus additives.

5. Monitor Potassium Levels

Another electrolyte that should be monitored with care if one is experiencing CKD is potassium. Thus, potassium is necessary for a healthy body, but its concentration must be controlled to prevent the occurrence of various illnesses. Some of the causes of these abnormal changes include electrolyte imbalances such as potassium levels, which your doctor will have to change through diet. For example, potassium is found in fruits and vegetables; however, bananas and avocados are high in potassium. Avoid certain fruits related to potassium or potassium supplements, pay attention to the portions that you take, and consider consulting your physician or a registered dietitian for potassium-safe foods.

6. Understand Your Protein Needs

The amount of protein required to support muscular development is relatively high; with stage 3 CKD, there is also impaired protein catabolism, hence the elimination of protein wastes. One needs to know his/her status and identify the right amount of protein to take together with easier-to-digest proteins for the kidneys. This may require integrating plant protein sources such as beans and legumes and sensible quantities of lean protein from sources such as fish, birds, or eggs.

7. Limit Sodium Intake

Sodium, also known as salt, can contribute to high blood pressure, a common complication of CKD.

Reducing your sodium intake can help manage blood pressure and ease the burden on your kidneys.

Read food labels carefully and choose low-sodium options whenever possible.

8. Stay Motivated And Consistent

Managing a chronic condition like CKD requires ongoing commitment. While these dietary changes may seem overwhelming at first, remember that small, consistent steps lead to significant improvements. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. There will be days when cravings strike or when planning meals feels like a chore. Be patient with yourself, seek support from loved ones or a registered dietitian, and find healthy ways to manage those cravings.

Conclusion

Depending on the level of the disease, being in stage 3 of CKD means one has to be alert when it comes to handling their health. Thankfully, consuming foods for kidney health may be one of the most impactful strategies at your disposal. If you aim at these eight diet and nutrition goals, you will be empowering your Kidney Health and your overall well-being. Remember, consistency is key. Urology doctor and your registered dietitian to find a personalized eating plan that you can follow and is closest to your preference. If you are willing to follow the recommended dietary and lifestyle measures and have the necessary support, CKD is by no means a hopeless case, and you can start the journey toward better health without any misgivings.

Connect With Me!