top of page

Book Appointment

📞 (443) 380-0120

Blogs & Latest News

Trusted kidney health knowledge, explained simply.

Explore our collection of articles on kidney health, wellness, and lifestyle. From practical guides and expert insights to the latest updates in care, our goal is to share content that both informs and inspires. Browse through our posts to expand your knowledge and stay informed.

This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your doctor or nephrologist for information tailored to your specific health needs.

Minimalist kitchen countertop displaying a variety of sugar-free and low-calorie sweetener products, including diet soda, sparkling water, sugar-free yogurt, protein bars, sweetener packets, monk fruit and stevia extracts, and sugar-free gum, alongside berries and a tablet showing a glucose response graph.

Minimalist kitchen countertop displaying a variety of sugar-free and low-calorie sweetener products, including diet soda, sparkling water, sugar-free yogurt, protein bars, sweetener packets, monk fruit and stevia extracts, and sugar-free gum, alongside berries and a tablet showing a glucose response graph.

Non-Nutritive Sweeteners (Artificial Sweeteners): What People Should Know

Non-nutritive sweeteners are everywhere—from diet sodas to sugar-free snacks—but are they actually better than sugar? For most people, small to moderate amounts are considered safe, yet they’re not a magic solution for weight loss or long-term metabolic health. This article breaks down what artificial sweeteners are, how they’re regulated, potential benefits and side effects, and how to use them practically as part of a balanced, sustainable eating pattern.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

5 days ago4 min read

A brightly lit image showcasing various kidney-friendly foods spread across a wooden kitchen counter. An outline of a healthy kidney icon is featured on the right. The foods include fresh vegetables like broccoli, kale, and spinach, a bowl of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), whole grains in jars and a bowl (oats/barley), olive oil, tofu, black beans, avocado, walnuts, garlic, lemons, and lentils. A tablet is visible in the background.

A brightly lit image showcasing various kidney-friendly foods spread across a wooden kitchen counter. An outline of a healthy kidney icon is featured on the right. The foods include fresh vegetables like broccoli, kale, and spinach, a bowl of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), whole grains in jars and a bowl (oats/barley), olive oil, tofu, black beans, avocado, walnuts, garlic, lemons, and lentils. A tablet is visible in the background.

What Dietary Restrictions Do I Need to Follow If I Have Kidney Disease?

Living with CKD means prioritizing a plant-dominant diet to slow disease progression and protect your heart. Key changes include controlling your protein intake (lower for non-dialysis CKD, higher for dialysis) and strictly limiting sodium (under 2 grams per day). Potassium and phosphorus restrictions are highly individualized, often required only in later stages or if lab values are high. Always consult a renal dietitian to create a safe, personalized plan.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Jan 142 min read

A variety of MIND diet-recommended foods, including bowls of fresh berries, leafy greens, quinoa, walnuts, legumes, and olive oil, arranged on a wooden table to illustrate a brain-healthy eating pattern.

A variety of MIND diet-recommended foods, including bowls of fresh berries, leafy greens, quinoa, walnuts, legumes, and olive oil, arranged on a wooden table to illustrate a brain-healthy eating pattern.

The MIND Diet: A Brain-Healthy Way to Eat (That’s Also Great for Your Heart)

The MIND diet (Mediterranean–DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) blends the best of the Mediterranean and DASH diets with a focus on brain health. It emphasizes leafy greens, berries, beans, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, fish, and poultry—while limiting red meat, fried foods, sweets, and saturated fats. In this post, I’ll walk you through what the MIND diet is, what the science shows so far, and how to follow it in a realistic, sustainable way for long-term wellne

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Jan 145 min read

A medical illustration showing a pair of glowing kidneys surrounded by various elements of weight management and kidney health. Clockwise from the top, these elements include: a Semaglutide injection pen, a tablet showing a graph of Kidney Strain vs. Body Weight, a body weight scale and measuring tape, a clipboard checking eligibility criteria, running shoes and a yoga mat, healthy foods (vegetables, berries, grains), and a silhouette of a person showing the digestive system. Arrows emphasize the connection between these elements and kidney function.

A medical illustration showing a pair of glowing kidneys surrounded by various elements of weight management and kidney health. Clockwise from the top, these elements include: a Semaglutide injection pen, a tablet showing a graph of Kidney Strain vs. Body Weight, a body weight scale and measuring tape, a clipboard checking eligibility criteria, running shoes and a yoga mat, healthy foods (vegetables, berries, grains), and a silhouette of a person showing the digestive system. Arrows emphasize the connection between these elements and kidney function.

Obesity and Chronic Kidney Disease: Why Weight Matters for Kidney Health

Obesity speeds the progression of chronic kidney disease and can even prevent patients from qualifying for a kidney transplant. The good news: weight loss—through lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery—can protect kidney function and improve long-term outcomes. Learn how obesity affects the kidneys and how Kidney MD can help.

Obesity & Weight Management

Jan 74 min read

A row of five white supplement bottles labeled with various kidney-related nutrients and a stylized kidney icon with circular arrows, suggesting kidney support. The bottles, from left to right, are labeled: Omega-3 (EPA + DHA), Vitamin D3, Calcium Citrate, Inulin Prebiotic Fiber, and CoQ10. The bottles sit on a desk in a clean, brightly lit office or clinic setting.

A row of five white supplement bottles labeled with various kidney-related nutrients and a stylized kidney icon with circular arrows, suggesting kidney support. The bottles, from left to right, are labeled: Omega-3 (EPA + DHA), Vitamin D3, Calcium Citrate, Inulin Prebiotic Fiber, and CoQ10. The bottles sit on a desk in a clean, brightly lit office or clinic setting.

What Supplements Should I Take to Support My Kidneys? An Evidence-Based Overview

The strongest evidence for kidney protection in CKD comes from whole, plant-forward dietary patterns, not individual supplements. While Calcium Citrate or Inulin may assist in specific clinical needs, most supplements like CoQ10 and antioxidants lack consistent evidence to slow CKD progression. Crucially, avoid unapproved herbal detox products as they can cause harm. Prioritize long-term diet and clinical management.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Jan 73 min read

An illustration of human kidneys surrounded by a variety of plant-based foods including kale, spinach, lentils, berries, apples, nuts, and olive oil.

An illustration of human kidneys surrounded by a variety of plant-based foods including kale, spinach, lentils, berries, apples, nuts, and olive oil.

Plant-Based Diets and Kidney Disease: What You Need to Know

Plant-based diets are generally safe for most people with chronic kidney disease. High-quality patterns can slow disease progression and lower mortality. While potassium is a common fear, whole plants are often safer than processed foods. These diets also help manage phosphorus and reduce inflammation. Working with a renal dietitian is key to ensuring proper nutrient intake and individualized care.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Jan 74 min read

A photorealistic still life featuring a selection of popular, healthy dietary components arranged on a wooden kitchen counter. Items include salmon, eggs, avocado, a wooden cutting board with vegetables, a pre-packaged meal, grilled chicken, and yogurt with toppings. Above the display are neon outline icons representing different dietary concepts: a flame (metabolism/fat burn), a clock (time/intermittent fasting), a leaf (plant-based/whole food), a checklist (structured program), and a bicep (protein/muscle).

A photorealistic still life featuring a selection of popular, healthy dietary components arranged on a wooden kitchen counter. Items include salmon, eggs, avocado, a wooden cutting board with vegetables, a pre-packaged meal, grilled chicken, and yogurt with toppings. Above the display are neon outline icons representing different dietary concepts: a flame (metabolism/fat burn), a clock (time/intermittent fasting), a leaf (plant-based/whole food), a checklist (structured program), and a bicep (protein/muscle).

Understanding Popular Diets: A Physician’s Overview of What Works, What Doesn’t, and How to Choose Wisely

Navigating popular diets is overwhelming. While low-carb plans offer rapid short-term benefits, they raise sustainability and lipid concerns. Plant-Forward Patterns (like the Mediterranean diet) are the most evidence-supported for long-term heart and metabolic health. Choose sustainability over extreme restriction.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 24, 20253 min read

A bright, modern kitchen counter features a selection of healthy, colorful foods (berries, avocado, spinach, bell peppers), a blood pressure monitor, and a water bottle. Above the food, a glowing digital overlay shows a cross-section of the kidneys with icons representing physical activity and exercise, symbolizing the connection between lifestyle and kidney health.

A bright, modern kitchen counter features a selection of healthy, colorful foods (berries, avocado, spinach, bell peppers), a blood pressure monitor, and a water bottle. Above the food, a glowing digital overlay shows a cross-section of the kidneys with icons representing physical activity and exercise, symbolizing the connection between lifestyle and kidney health.

How to Slow Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Progression: A Practical, Patient-Friendly Guide

Preventing chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression is possible with the right approach. This guide explains how lifestyle changes, blood pressure and diabetes control, and newer medications—such as SGLT2 inhibitors and finerenone—work together to protect your kidneys.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 24, 20253 min read

A vibrant, photorealistic still life featuring a wide variety of fresh, minimally processed Mediterranean diet foods spread across a wooden kitchen table. The display includes whole-grain bread, baskets of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and leafy greens, a plate of cooked salmon, nuts and seeds, chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil in a clear pitcher, and colorful fruits like grapes, berries, and oranges. Small icons float above the food, representing the health benefits for the heart, liver, and kidneys.

A vibrant, photorealistic still life featuring a wide variety of fresh, minimally processed Mediterranean diet foods spread across a wooden kitchen table. The display includes whole-grain bread, baskets of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and leafy greens, a plate of cooked salmon, nuts and seeds, chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil in a clear pitcher, and colorful fruits like grapes, berries, and oranges. Small icons float above the food, representing the health benefits for the heart, liver, and kidneys.

The Mediterranean Diet: One of the Most Evidence-Based Approaches for Heart, Metabolic, Kidney, and Liver Health

The Mediterranean diet is a consistently validated, plant-forward eating pattern—not a trend. Focusing on whole grains, olive oil, and beans, it offers wide-ranging benefits. It is highly effective for protecting your heart (reducing the risk of stroke/heart attack), improving metabolic health, and supporting your liver and kidneys. This sustainable approach supports long-term health without extreme restriction.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 17, 20254 min read

A bountiful assortment of ready-to-eat ketogenic and low-carbohydrate foods arranged on a clean white table, including grilled salmon with asparagus, chicken salad, avocado, eggs, sautéed vegetables, cauliflower rice, nuts, olives, cheese, Greek yogurt with berries, and olive oil. The background is bright and minimal with subtle scientific molecular graphics.

A bountiful assortment of ready-to-eat ketogenic and low-carbohydrate foods arranged on a clean white table, including grilled salmon with asparagus, chicken salad, avocado, eggs, sautéed vegetables, cauliflower rice, nuts, olives, cheese, Greek yogurt with berries, and olive oil. The background is bright and minimal with subtle scientific molecular graphics.

Ketogenic and Low-Carbohydrate Diets: What the Latest Evidence Really Shows

Explore the latest evidence on ketogenic and low-carbohydrate diets. Learn how these diets affect weight loss, blood sugar, cholesterol, and overall metabolic health, who benefits most, and the potential risks—including LDL increases and nutrient gaps. Get an evidence-informed guide to using keto and low-carb diets safely and effectively.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 9, 20254 min read

A photorealistic image of a smiling, healthy couple (a man and a woman in athletic wear) standing in a bright, modern kitchen. On the marble counter in front of them is a comprehensive arrangement of kidney-friendly items: a basket of fresh produce (apples, peppers), salmon, eggs, olive oil, a blood pressure monitor, and a small dumbbell. A glowing, stylized cross with a pair of kidneys overlaid on the woman's torso emphasizes the importance of kidney health and medical care.

A photorealistic image of a smiling, healthy couple (a man and a woman in athletic wear) standing in a bright, modern kitchen. On the marble counter in front of them is a comprehensive arrangement of kidney-friendly items: a basket of fresh produce (apples, peppers), salmon, eggs, olive oil, a blood pressure monitor, and a small dumbbell. A glowing, stylized cross with a pair of kidneys overlaid on the woman's torso emphasizes the importance of kidney health and medical care.

What Is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and How Does It Affect Daily Life?

A CKD diagnosis is scary, but the fact is most people never need dialysis. CKD progression is slow, and you are in control of the speed. By embracing simple habits—like smart eating, staying active, and taking your prescribed medications—you protect your kidneys and reduce heart risks. Knowledge is power. Start making those small, steady changes today.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 9, 20253 min read

A split-screen image demonstrating intermittent fasting. The left side shows a smiling woman eating a healthy meal of fruit, berries, and what appears to be a small portion of lean protein, representing the "eating window." The right side shows a woman drinking water next to a digital timer displaying "16:00:00," emphasizing the "fasting period." The setting is a clean, bright home kitchen.

A split-screen image demonstrating intermittent fasting. The left side shows a smiling woman eating a healthy meal of fruit, berries, and what appears to be a small portion of lean protein, representing the "eating window." The right side shows a woman drinking water next to a digital timer displaying "16:00:00," emphasizing the "fasting period." The setting is a clean, bright home kitchen.

Intermittent Fasting: What We Know, What We Don’t, and How to Use It Safely

Intermittent Fasting (IF) is popular for metabolic health, but does it really work? A physician breaks down the science: comparing Alternate-Day Fasting, Time-Restricted Eating, and the 5:2 Diet. Discover the benefits (weight loss, improved blood sugar), potential drawbacks, and essential safety guidelines—especially for older adults and those with diabetes.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 3, 20254 min read

A middle-aged man with a worried expression sits at a kitchen table, resting his chin on his hand. A paper labeled "LABORATORY RESULTS" is in front of him. He is looking out the window, appearing reflective or concerned about his chronic kidney disease diagnosis.

A middle-aged man with a worried expression sits at a kitchen table, resting his chin on his hand. A paper labeled "LABORATORY RESULTS" is in front of him. He is looking out the window, appearing reflective or concerned about his chronic kidney disease diagnosis.

I Have Chronic Kidney Disease — Do I Need Dialysis?

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) does NOT automatically mean dialysis. Learn the CKD stages, the key uremic symptoms, and the personalized risk factors doctors use to determine if and when dialysis is necessary. Most patients never need it!

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 3, 20252 min read

A yellow measuring tape coiled around and draped over a scattered assortment of various colorful pills and capsules on a clean white background. The image represents medical weight loss and anti-obesity medications.

A yellow measuring tape coiled around and draped over a scattered assortment of various colorful pills and capsules on a clean white background. The image represents medical weight loss and anti-obesity medications.

Anti-Obesity Medications: Safe, Effective, and Evidence-Based

For many, weight loss is a frustrating cycle of setbacks. It’s time to shift the conversation: Obesity is a chronic medical condition, not a failure of willpower. Learn how modern, FDA-approved anti-obesity medications (AOMs) work with your biology to target the drivers of hunger and cravings, offering a safe, effective, and evidence-based path toward sustainable metabolic health.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 25, 20253 min read

A close-up, brightly lit photograph of various nutritional supplements and natural ingredients on a white wooden surface. The supplements include amber fish oil capsules and beige herbal or vitamin capsules placed in wooden spoons, and scattered pink and yellow vitamin tablets. In the background are a mortar and pestle containing green herbs (like mint), and a small amber dropper bottle, suggesting a focus on natural health, remedies, and wellness.

A close-up, brightly lit photograph of various nutritional supplements and natural ingredients on a white wooden surface. The supplements include amber fish oil capsules and beige herbal or vitamin capsules placed in wooden spoons, and scattered pink and yellow vitamin tablets. In the background are a mortar and pestle containing green herbs (like mint), and a small amber dropper bottle, suggesting a focus on natural health, remedies, and wellness.

Supplements: Helpful or Hype?

Walk down any aisle and you’ll find thousands of supplements. But which ones work, and are they safe for my kidneys? Supplements are not replacements for food or medical care. Before starting one, ask: Do I need this, is there evidence it works, and could it harm my kidneys or interact with my medications? Remember: “Natural” doesn’t always mean safe—especially if you have kidney disease. Let's separate science from marketing to ensure your choices are informed and kidney-s

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 25, 20253 min read

A person with curly hair sits at a wooden table, illuminated by a warm lamp light, looking down intently at a document that appears to be lab results labeled 'Kidney Function Panel Results.' A second person's hand rests gently on the first person's forearm in a gesture of support and comfort. The scene suggests a serious, emotional moment of processing difficult health news.

A person with curly hair sits at a wooden table, illuminated by a warm lamp light, looking down intently at a document that appears to be lab results labeled 'Kidney Function Panel Results.' A second person's hand rests gently on the first person's forearm in a gesture of support and comfort. The scene suggests a serious, emotional moment of processing difficult health news.

Overwhelmed by a CKD Diagnosis? What It Means and How to Navigate the Next Steps

Many individuals recall the exact moment they were informed, “You have chronic kidney disease.” It is common to feel shock, anxiety, or confusion when facing this diagnosis. CKD doesn't just impact lab results—it influences your emotional wellbeing, routines, and future planning. If you are feeling overwhelmed by unfamiliar terms like eGFR, stages, or proteinuria, please know that this is normal. Common emotional responses include fear about future function and overwhelm re

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 25, 20254 min read

A smiling female pharmacist in a white lab coat handing a prescription bag to a male patient across a counter in a pharmacy. Shelves of various medications are blurred in the background, illustrating safe dispensing of medication.

A smiling female pharmacist in a white lab coat handing a prescription bag to a male patient across a counter in a pharmacy. Shelves of various medications are blurred in the background, illustrating safe dispensing of medication.

Safe Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications for People with Kidney Disease

If you have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), common OTC drugs like Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) and Naproxen (Aleve) pose a high risk of kidney damage. This guide details which medications to avoid and which are generally safer (like Acetaminophen/Tylenol) when used correctly. Learn essential safety tips, including why you must read labels carefully and always consult your nephrologist or pharmacist before taking anything new.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 19, 20255 min read

A diverse collection of whole foods, including fish, meat, dairy (milk, cheese), eggs, beans, nuts, and leafy green vegetables, arranged on a kitchen counter to represent a balanced diet rich in essential minerals.

A diverse collection of whole foods, including fish, meat, dairy (milk, cheese), eggs, beans, nuts, and leafy green vegetables, arranged on a kitchen counter to represent a balanced diet rich in essential minerals.

The Mineral Mix: Calcium, Magnesium, Iron & More

The Mineral Mix: Calcium, Magnesium, Iron & More Vitamins are often discussed, but minerals are the quiet heroes that build bones, support muscles, and balance fluids. When you have kidney disease, managing minerals like Potassium and Phosphorus becomes critical, as imbalances can lead to serious health issues. Learn the best food sources for essential minerals like Iron and Magnesium, and understand which supplements you should never take without specific lab guidance from

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 19, 20253 min read

A vibrant, photorealistic image of a healthy, happy person standing confidently on a path with arms outstretched. They are surrounded by a glowing, transparent halo that integrates 11 symbolic icons representing key weight maintenance habits: a balanced plate (mindful eating), walking shoes (movement), a crescent moon (sleep), a notebook (food awareness), a steak (protein), a clock (eating routine), a meditating person (stress management), a graph showing progress (self-monitoring), a target (new goals), an alarm clock (early course-correction), and a half-orange slice (potentially another healthy habit). The person looks towards a bright horizon, symbolizing holistic well-being and continuous progress.

A vibrant, photorealistic image of a healthy, happy person standing confidently on a path with arms outstretched. They are surrounded by a glowing, transparent halo that integrates 11 symbolic icons representing key weight maintenance habits: a balanced plate (mindful eating), walking shoes (movement), a crescent moon (sleep), a notebook (food awareness), a steak (protein), a clock (eating routine), a meditating person (stress management), a graph showing progress (self-monitoring), a target (new goals), an alarm clock (early course-correction), and a half-orange slice (potentially another healthy habit). The person looks towards a bright horizon, symbolizing holistic well-being and continuous progress.

How to Prevent Weight Regain: Key Habits for Long-Term Success

Losing weight is a huge victory, but maintaining that success requires shifting your focus from short-term dieting to long-term behavioral strategies. We break down the 11 essential habits that successful maintainers practice daily, covering everything from prioritizing protein and sleep to building an accountability system. Learn how to catch a subtle 3–5 lb regain early, create a non-food stress plan, and why consistency—not perfection—is the only way to protect your hard-e

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 19, 20254 min read

A young, diverse couple is happily seated in a bright kitchen setting. They are both holding glasses of water and smiling at each other. On the counter, there is a glass pitcher of water, a clear turquoise bottle labeled "AquaZen+ Alkaline Water (pH 9.5)," and a metallic bottle labeled "HydroGen+ Hydrogen Water," illustrating the comparison between different types of filtered water.

A young, diverse couple is happily seated in a bright kitchen setting. They are both holding glasses of water and smiling at each other. On the counter, there is a glass pitcher of water, a clear turquoise bottle labeled "AquaZen+ Alkaline Water (pH 9.5)," and a metallic bottle labeled "HydroGen+ Hydrogen Water," illustrating the comparison between different types of filtered water.

Hydrogen Water Benefits, Risks, and Safety: Is Hydrogen Water Better Than Regular or Alkaline Water?

Is Hydrogen Water worth the wellness hype? Discover the potential antioxidant benefits and what the science says about exercise recovery and metabolism. We break down how Hydrogen Water compares to alkaline or regular water, and review the safety profile—including the crucial risks for those with CKD or electrolyte issues. Get the facts before you drink!

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 12, 20253 min read

bottom of page