Helena Jackson
Renal Specialist Dietician, St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Dr Rosa Montero
Renal & Transplant Consultant, St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
It is difficult to know what to do when you have chronic kidney disease. Find some dietary and lifestyle advice as a guide on how to have good kidney health.
Eating more plant-based foods and fewer animal proteins, additives and processed foods is associated with improved wellbeing and health. Focus on whole grains, vegetables, fruits, beans and cooking from scratch.
Healthier diet: moderate salt, limit alcohol
A daily salt intake of less than 5g (2.5g sodium) is recommended to protect against high blood pressure and heart disease. Try using the ‘traffic light’ labelling on packaged food to choose lower salt options, but avoid potassium-based salt substitutes and any food items containing potassium chloride. Alcohol is best limited to less than two units in men and one unit in women per day.
CKD caution: consult for supplements
People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) should avoid non-prescription medications, drinks and supplements unless checked with a pharmacist or doctor because these can be harmful. The exception is Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) as most people in the UK need Vitamin D supplements to avoid deficiency, during the winter and throughout the year for those with limited sun exposure.
People with chronic kidney disease
(CKD) should avoid non-prescription
medications, drinks and supplements.
Weight wisdom and balanced lifestyle
Achieving a healthy weight is recommended through sustainable lifestyle changes like more activity and better eating habits, such as controlling portions and limiting snacks and takeaways.
Carbohydrates, ideally wholegrain, should stay on the menu. Diets advocating high protein, fasting or any extreme approach should be avoided or only attempted with medical supervision.
Being more active
Increasing activity has proven beneficial and important to include in daily life. The UK Kidney Association recommend aiming for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. Brisk walking, housework and dancing all count, but check with your doctor when starting something new.
Wellbeing support resources
Wellbeing offers enormous benefits, with mental health gaining recognition. Kidney units offer dedicated support services, including access to counsellors and psychologists, so ask for help. Online support groups and renal charities, including Kidney Care UK and Kidney Research UK, are also important sources for mental health, lifestyle and wellbeing.
