Numerous strategies can assist in delaying kidney failure, particularly when chronic kidney disease (CKD) is identified during its earlier stages. Employ the following tips and seek guidance from a nephrologist for expert advice on mitigating the progression of CKD.
Manage Your Blood Pressure:
Maintaining a healthy blood pressure range can potentially decelerate kidney disease advancement. This holds particularly true for individuals with diabetes and proteinuria (protein in the urine). Implement lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, practicing relaxation techniques, reducing salt and alcohol intake, and quitting smoking to help lower your blood pressure. If you are diagnosed with hypertension, your doctor may also prescribe blood pressure medication to complement lifestyle modifications.
Monitor Your Blood Glucose:
For individuals with diabetes, effectively managing blood glucose levels can contribute to slowing down kidney disease progression. Adopt a diet that aligns with both diabetes and kidney health, and adhere to your doctor’s guidance concerning dietary choices, insulin, or other medications.
Adopt a Kidney-Friendly Diet and Exercise Routine:
Your dietary choices play a crucial role in your overall health. Embracing a kidney-friendly diet, tailored to your specific needs and recommended by a dietitian, can be instrumental in slowing CKD progression. Additionally, regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are effective methods for managing the advancement of your disease. Collaborate with your doctor to incorporate exercise into your daily regimen.
Exercise Caution with Over-the-Counter Supplements and Medications:
If you have a CKD diagnosis, it is essential to consult your doctor regarding suitable medications for your condition, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Ensure that all treatments align with your specific health requirements.
Stay Informed:
Utilize American Dialysis Centers’s assortment of tools and resources to expand your knowledge about kidney disease, discover effective strategies for slowing CKD progression, and access valuable information to support your journey toward better kidney health.