Discovering that you have early-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD) can be unsettling. It also offers a valuable window of opportunity. In stages 1 and 2, your kidneys are still functioning well. With the right lifestyle and dietary modifications, you can help slow disease progression, manage associated risk factors, and protect your overall health. Here are some key eating strategies to support kidney health and reduce complications in early-stage CKD.*

Managing Risk Factors Through Diet

Early-stage CKD often coexists with modifiable risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Nutrition plays a vital role in managing these conditions:

• High blood pressure (hypertension). Sodium intake directly affects blood pressure. Reducing sodium to around 1,500 mg daily can help. This means choosing fresh foods over processed items, reading labels, and avoiding salty condiments and snacks.
  
• High blood sugar (hyperglycemia). For people with diabetes, controlling blood glucose is essential. Carbohydrate counting and choosing high-fiber, low-sugar foods can prevent spikes in blood sugar that would otherwise damage kidneys and blood vessels.
  
• Excess protein in urine (proteinuria). A moderate protein intake can reduce stress on your kidneys. The general recommendation is about 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, aligned with general dietary guidelines for healthy adults.
  
• High cholesterol and lipids (fats). Dyslipidemia, or high levels of unhealthy fats in the blood, is common in CKD. Choose heart-healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, olive or canola oil, and avoid saturated and trans fats from processed and fried foods.
  
• Chronic inflammation. Diets high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed foods can increase inflammation, a contributor to both kidney and heart disease. Instead, eat more antioxidant-rich foods like colorful fruits, vegetables, legumes, and low-fat dairy. Minimize fast food and sugary drinks.
  

Additionally, watch for harmful supplements; some herbal products may damage the kidneys. It’s also important to get enough vitamins and minerals and adjust calories as needed for weight management.

A Practical Approach to the Early-Stage CKD Diet

The early CKD diet closely resembles the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet and the general Dietary Guidelines for Americans, with one key difference: a focus on moderating protein intake. To get started, you can:

• Increase fiber. Add fruits, vegetables, and whole grains (like high-fiber cereals or whole-grain bread).
  
• Moderate protein. Replace red meat with lean poultry and seafood—preferably grilled or baked—and limit to 6 ounces or less per day.
  
• Limit dairy fats. Choose low- or nonfat options over full-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese.
  
• Watch your phosphorus. Avoid processed foods with hidden phosphorus additives.
  
• Cut sodium. Keep your intake between 1,500 and 2,300 mg daily.
  
• Reduce Alcohol. Drink moderately, if at all.
  
• Watch your calories. Achieve/Maintain a healthy weight by eating appropriate portions and snacking wisely.
  

It’s not too early to start working with a dietitian. You may not feel any symptoms in early CKD, but your dietary choices now can have a profound impact later. By adopting kidney-friendly eating habits early, you’re investing in your long-term health.

*DaVita Kidney Care. (n.d.). What to Eat When You Have Stage 1 or 2 Kidney Disease. https://www.davita.com/diet-nutrition/articles/advice/what-to-eat-when-you-have-stage-1-or-2-kidney-disease#:~ 

To ensure that we always provide you with high-quality, reliable information, Responsum Health closely vets all sources. We do not, however, endorse or recommend any specific providers, treatments, or products, and the use of a given source does not imply an endorsement of any provider, treatment, medication, procedure, or device discussed within.