In the early stages of CKD, your nephrologist and nutritionist will work closely with you to choose the most appropriate diet and treatment, give you advice on lifestyle changes, in order to reduce symptoms and slow the progression of kidney disease.

  • In CKD, diet is an important part of your treatment plan and can protect your kidneys. You need to maintain some restrictions on the consumption of fluids, animal protein and sometimes potassium-rich foods.
    • Restriction of animal proteins. Toxins in foods containing animal protein are only properly eliminated when the kidneys are fully functioning. In more advanced stages of CKD, you will be asked to limit the consumption of animal protein. If you start dialysis sessions, these treatments will take over the function of eliminating toxins and you will be able to increase the amount of protein allowed in the diet.
    • Restriction of foods with high level of potassium. In advanced stages of CKD, it may be necessary to limit the consumption of foods containing large amounts of potassium. It is found mainly in some fruits and vegetables. The nephrologist and dietitian will provide you with support in this regard, taking into account your tests and the medication you are taking. Some medications can increase the amount of potassium in the blood.
    • Restriction of salt and liquids. In CKD you may need to limit your intake of salt and fluids in order to control your blood pressure and limit complications.
  • Lifestyle changes (quit smoking, weight loss in overweight people, physical exercise, etc.) can also be part of your treatment plan.
  • Control of high blood pressure and blood sugar (in diabetic patients) is an important aspect of the CKD approach.
  • Choosing an individual treatment scheme, appropriate, adapted to kidney function and other associated diseases you may have (co-morbidities), also participates in slowing the progression of the disease.
  • Treatment of CKD secondary complications (renal anaemia, renal bone disease, metabolic acidosis) can also help slow the progression of the disease to the final stage and balance the body.
  • In stage 5 of the disease, only the replacement of kidney function by dialysis (haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) or kidney transplant can keep you alive. One of the two methods of dialysis mentioned can be chosen together with your nephrologist, taking into account indications and contraindications, your lifestyle and your preferences. You will be closely informed about all these aspects, so that you can make an informed choice.