Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) lets you know how well your kidneys are working. It is a common test used to check for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and assess the disease’s progress. As kidney disease progresses, one’s GFR declines. According to the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), there is no guaranteed method for improving one’s GFR, though some lifestyle adjustments may have a positive impact for some people..* 

What does the GFR test mean?  

GFR is calculated using your creatinine levels, age, race, and gender. The GFR calculation is a percentage, where a score of 100 means your kidneys are working normally and at 100%. The lower the percentage, the worse your kidney function is. Generally speaking, a GFR above 60 and a creatinine number below 1.2 are considered “good.”  

Can my GFR improve? 

GFR can improve in some people. For many people, health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, lead to CKD. With proper care of these conditions, along with adjustments to diet and physical activity, you potentially can improve your GFR.  

Certain factors make it more difficult for some people to see improvement. Older age (greater than 60 years) and certain hereditary influences, such as one’s family history and race or ethnicity, play a major role. While it may be more difficult for some to see improvement, the progression of CKD can still be slowed down. 

What are some ways to potentially improve my GFR or prevent it from worsening?  

1. Try out the DASH diet. The DASH diet is recommended for people with high blood pressure, diabetes, and/or CKD. The diet is rich in lean proteins (like fish and poultry), fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products and reduces your intake of red meats, fried foods, and sugary foods and beverages. 
2. Aim to be physically active every day. Physical activity has many benefits for your entire body. Whether you enjoy aerobic exercise, such as hiking and biking, or light household activities, like gardening or doing chores, any type of physical activity is beneficial and can potentially improve your GFR and preserve kidney function. 
3. Monitor your diabetes and/or high blood pressure. If you have one of these conditions, it’s crucial to keep an eye on them and take care of them accordingly, which may improve your GFR. Regularly monitoring your blood pressure and/or blood sugars at home is important. Speak to your doctor if you need assistance and/or want to learn how to best take care of these conditions at home.

Additional information can be found on the National Kidney Foundation pages on “Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)” and “Exercise: What You Should Know,” as well as DaVita Kidney Care’s article on “Save your kidneys with a DASH Diet.” 

*National Kidney Foundation. (2019, June 19). Can my GFR get better?