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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.
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
Nov 25, 20253 min read
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
Nov 25, 20254 min read
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.
Nov 19, 20255 min read
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
Nov 19, 20253 min read
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
Nov 19, 20254 min read
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!
Nov 12, 20253 min read
The ABCs of Vitamins: What Each One Does for Your Body
Vitamins are essential for everything from energy and immunity to bone strength and nerve function. But what exactly do Vitamin A, the B-complex, and Vitamin D do? We break down the roles, food sources, and specialized considerations for each essential vitamin. Crucially, learn why high doses of Vitamins A, C, and E can be risky for people with CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease), and who truly benefits from supplementation (like vegans or bariatric patients).
Nov 12, 20253 min read
Understanding Diabetic Kidney Disease
Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) is the most common cause of kidney failure, but it's not inevitable. Learn the two most powerful steps you can take today: rigorous control of blood sugar (A1C) and blood pressure (under 130/80 mm Hg). We detail how high blood pressure creates a vicious cycle of damage and explain the modern, kidney-protective medications (SGLT2 inhibitors and ARBs/ACE inhibitors) that can help you delay or prevent kidney damage.
Nov 12, 20253 min read
💊 Should I Take a Multivitamin?
Walk into any pharmacy and you'll see aisles of supplements, but for most healthy adults, a daily multivitamin isn't necessary—a balanced diet usually provides enough. However, a multivitamin can be a vital safety net for those with restrictive diets, those taking GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic or Wegovy), or specific groups like seniors and pregnant women. Learn why certain vitamins require extra monitoring in people with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and why consistency mat
Nov 5, 20254 min read
How Much Water Should You Drink Each Day?
We often hear advice to "drink more water," but the right amount is highly personalized. While the standard "8 cups a day" rule is simple, your true needs depend on your activity level and health. Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining kidney function, metabolism, and mood, but for patients with conditions like Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or Heart Failure, following general advice can be risky. Learn how to determine your personal fluid goal and the simple way to ch
Nov 5, 20253 min read
Itching in Kidney Disease: Why It Happens and How It’s Managed
Up to 70% of people with advanced kidney disease experience persistent, bothersome itching (CKD-associated pruritus). This symptom is caused by a complex mix of dry skin, nerve changes, and the buildup of waste products (uremic toxins). Learn why addressing dry skin is the first line of defense, who is most at risk, and the effective medications and therapies available to help you find relief and improve your sleep and quality of life.
Nov 5, 20252 min read
How to Check Your Blood Pressure the Right Way
A step-by-step guide from Kidney MD Checking your blood pressure at home is one of the most important ways to keep track of your heart and kidney health. But the numbers are only useful if they’re accurate — and small mistakes can make readings higher or lower than they really are. Here’s how to do it correctly. 💡 Why It Matters High blood pressure (hypertension) often has no symptoms , but over time it can quietly damage your heart, kidneys, and blood vessels.Regular, accur
Nov 3, 20253 min read
My GFR Dropped? Should I Be Worried?
Noticed a slight dip in your GFR result between blood tests? You're not alone. While seeing the number change can be unsettling, it's actually very normal for your Glomerular Filtration Rate to fluctuate slightly. Find out when a change is just routine variation and when it's time to have a serious talk with your doctor. We break down the percentage changes that matter.
Oct 29, 20252 min read
🎃 Sweet—but Safe—Halloween: A Kidney-Friendly Guide
Don't let kidney concerns scare you away from Halloween fun! 🎃 For people with CKD or on dialysis, navigating all that candy requires a plan. We break down the spooky truth about sugar and phosphorus hiding in popular treats like Snickers and Reese's. Learn the key ingredient labels to watch out for, get a guide to low-phosphorus candy, and find fun, kidney-friendly snack alternatives that keep the party going—without compromising your health!
Oct 29, 20253 min read
I Am Losing Muscle Mass: What Should I Do?
Losing muscle mass (sarcopenia) is a serious issue for those with CKD or on dialysis. It's caused by inflammation, hormone changes, and dialysis losses. We show you the three steps to fight back: targeted nutrition, consistent exercise, and close team management. Act now to preserve your strength!
Oct 21, 20255 min read
Medications and Weight Gain: What You Should Know
Are you experiencing medication weight gain after starting a new prescription? You're not alone. Many common medicines can increase appetite, slow metabolism, or cause fluid retention. Learn which drugs are often linked to weight gain and the crucial steps you can take. Discover how to work with your doctor on alternatives or lifestyle adjustments to manage medication weight gain effectively.
Oct 21, 20253 min read
The Power of Protein: More Than Muscle
Check how much protein you need on a daily basis.
Oct 15, 20252 min read
Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): What They Mean for You
Want to learn what different stages of kidney disease mean?
Oct 8, 20254 min read
How to Set SMART Goals and Actually Achieve Them
Without a clear plan, your goals fade away. Learn how to write your goals and achieve them.
Oct 8, 20252 min read
How Often Should I Check Labs If I Have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
f you have chronic kidney disease (CKD), regular lab tests are an important part of staying healthy. Blood and urine tests help your doctor track kidney function, adjust treatments, and catch problems early. But how often should you do labs with CKD? Here’s a clear guide to help you understand the right lab test schedule for your condition.
Sep 30, 20254 min read
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