Kidney Disease/Renal Nutritionists and Dietitians in 60611

Photo of Jennifer Sherman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Jennifer Sherman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
HI! I'm an RD who will customize a nutrition plan tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Be that to reduce weight, improve autoimmune & IBS symptoms, lower blood pressure, cholesterol, or A1C. Using a science-based approach, we'll work together to develop a personalized strategy to help you meet your goals by making small, achievable dietary and lifestyle changes as I guide you, gently, through the process. I earned my master's degree in human nutrition from UIC in 2016 and have worked in Chicago as a licensed and registered dietitian ever since. I am currently seeing all clients via tele-health. I can help you improve.
HI! I'm an RD who will customize a nutrition plan tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Be that to reduce weight, improve autoimmune & IBS symptoms, lower blood pressure, cholesterol, or A1C. Using a science-based approach, we'll work together to develop a personalized strategy to help you meet your goals by making small, achievable dietary and lifestyle changes as I guide you, gently, through the process. I earned my master's degree in human nutrition from UIC in 2016 and have worked in Chicago as a licensed and registered dietitian ever since. I am currently seeing all clients via tele-health. I can help you improve.
(872) 259-4490 View (872) 259-4490

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Kate Zalewski, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSR, LDN
Kate Zalewski
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSR, LDN
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I am a dietitian and Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, based in Chicago, IL.
In my practice I'll help you understand the diet and lifestyle changes that preserve kidney function, and I provide support, perspective, and motivation to make long-lasting changes. I'll guide you to a better understanding of what kidney disease is, and how to address the root causes of your own unique disease process through dietary interventions.
I am a dietitian and Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, based in Chicago, IL.
In my practice I'll help you understand the diet and lifestyle changes that preserve kidney function, and I provide support, perspective, and motivation to make long-lasting changes. I'll guide you to a better understanding of what kidney disease is, and how to address the root causes of your own unique disease process through dietary interventions.
(773) 906-4932 View (773) 906-4932
Photo of Jody Halouska, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Jody Halouska
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Chicago, IL 60615
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
(872) 259-7074 View (872) 259-7074
Photo of Carra Joseph, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LRD, LD
Carra Joseph
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LRD, LD
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Carra is a Registered Dietitian (RD) who recognizes that nutrition is both universal and deeply personal. Nutrition isn’t just about eating—culture, goals, preferences, and habits all shape how we fuel ourselves. Carra provides a nonjudgmental space where individuals can connect nutrition and wellness and feel empowered to make sustainable changes.
Carra is a Registered Dietitian (RD) who recognizes that nutrition is both universal and deeply personal. Nutrition isn’t just about eating—culture, goals, preferences, and habits all shape how we fuel ourselves. Carra provides a nonjudgmental space where individuals can connect nutrition and wellness and feel empowered to make sustainable changes.
(980) 575-0909 View (980) 575-0909
Photo of Dawn White, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS
Dawn White
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60467
For over twenty years, I have worked in helping people find healing and health through nutrition education and counseling. With experience in areas including family nutrition, eating disorders, medical nutrition therapy, and more I utilize a person centered, non-diet approach to understand values, goals, and challenges in navigating nutrition. Insurance and self-pay options are available. In-person and virtual appointments available in Illinois as well as virtual in the states of Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, New York, Arkansas, Kentucky, and California. Faith based nutrition counseling available upon request.
For over twenty years, I have worked in helping people find healing and health through nutrition education and counseling. With experience in areas including family nutrition, eating disorders, medical nutrition therapy, and more I utilize a person centered, non-diet approach to understand values, goals, and challenges in navigating nutrition. Insurance and self-pay options are available. In-person and virtual appointments available in Illinois as well as virtual in the states of Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, New York, Arkansas, Kentucky, and California. Faith based nutrition counseling available upon request.
(708) 787-8179 View (708) 787-8179
Photo of Casey Bramble, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Casey Bramble
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Casey specializes in weight management, anti-inflammatory nutrition, diabetes care, prenatal and postpartum nutrition, heart and kidney health, and malnutrition.
Casey is a compassionate Registered Dietitian (RD) dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health and well-being. Her ideal client is someone who is curious about improving their relationship with food and their body through sustainable nutrition practices.
Casey specializes in weight management, anti-inflammatory nutrition, diabetes care, prenatal and postpartum nutrition, heart and kidney health, and malnutrition.
Casey is a compassionate Registered Dietitian (RD) dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health and well-being. Her ideal client is someone who is curious about improving their relationship with food and their body through sustainable nutrition practices.
(321) 475-6080 View (321) 475-6080
Photo of Ashley McTaggart, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Ashley McTaggart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Formerly Ashley Evans. I am a Registered Dietitian and an alumna of Northern Illinois University. With over seven years of experience in the eating disorder field, I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journey. I began my nutrition career at a residential eating disorder facility in downtown Chicago and later expanded my expertise through roles in Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) levels of care. My nutrition philosophy emphasizes building a healthy and positive relationship with food, integrating mental, emotional, physical, and social health.
Formerly Ashley Evans. I am a Registered Dietitian and an alumna of Northern Illinois University. With over seven years of experience in the eating disorder field, I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journey. I began my nutrition career at a residential eating disorder facility in downtown Chicago and later expanded my expertise through roles in Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) levels of care. My nutrition philosophy emphasizes building a healthy and positive relationship with food, integrating mental, emotional, physical, and social health.
(773) 372-0099 View (773) 372-0099
Photo of Stephanie Bruzek, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Stephanie Bruzek
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Stephanie is a Registered Dietitian with over 11 years of experience helping individuals manage their health through nutrition. Stephanie promotes individualized care, focusing on nutrition education, behavior change, and promoting health in a sustainable way. Stephanie enjoys connecting with her clients and developing a plan together that will work for their life and aligns with their goals.
Stephanie is a Registered Dietitian with over 11 years of experience helping individuals manage their health through nutrition. Stephanie promotes individualized care, focusing on nutrition education, behavior change, and promoting health in a sustainable way. Stephanie enjoys connecting with her clients and developing a plan together that will work for their life and aligns with their goals.
(551) 284-0794 View (551) 284-0794
Photo of Elise Vega, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
Elise Vega
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
(321) 468-9298 View (321) 468-9298
Photo of Kelly Duncombe, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Kelly Duncombe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Specialities include: Weight management, Diabetes, Heart Health, General Nutrition, Gut Health, Kidney Disease, Sports Nutrition, Women's Health (Pre/Post Natal Nutrition), Infertility Nutrition, Vegan/Vegetarian diets, PCOS, Hormonal Issues.
Meet Kelly, a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a passion for the profound connection between food, health, and the human body. Kelly's journey in the realm of nutrition has been fueled by her unwavering commitment to promoting well-being and her insatiable curiosity for learning. With a heart that genuinely loves people, Kelly derives immense satisfaction from coaching and helping individuals on their path to better health. Her fascination with medical conditions drives her to continuously seek innovative ways to make a difference in the lives of those she serves and strives to empower others to make informed, healthier choices
Specialities include: Weight management, Diabetes, Heart Health, General Nutrition, Gut Health, Kidney Disease, Sports Nutrition, Women's Health (Pre/Post Natal Nutrition), Infertility Nutrition, Vegan/Vegetarian diets, PCOS, Hormonal Issues.
Meet Kelly, a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a passion for the profound connection between food, health, and the human body. Kelly's journey in the realm of nutrition has been fueled by her unwavering commitment to promoting well-being and her insatiable curiosity for learning. With a heart that genuinely loves people, Kelly derives immense satisfaction from coaching and helping individuals on their path to better health. Her fascination with medical conditions drives her to continuously seek innovative ways to make a difference in the lives of those she serves and strives to empower others to make informed, healthier choices
(872) 259-6187 View (872) 259-6187
Photo of Alisa C Bloom, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN, NBC-HWC
Alisa C Bloom
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN, NBC-HWC
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Are you struggling with one or more life-disrupting symptoms that have been dismissed by other medical providers, despite being on one or more medications? As a DNA-Focused Nutritionist, let me help you use food as medicine, in customized, realistic steps! I add a functional nutrition approach, with herbs and supplements as needed, to discover the root cause of symptoms and develop a personalized plan that evolves with you while you optimize your health. This approach works incredibly well to lift mood, minimize medications, lose weight, increase energy, balance blood sugar and insulin levels, lower blood pressure, and sleep better.
Are you struggling with one or more life-disrupting symptoms that have been dismissed by other medical providers, despite being on one or more medications? As a DNA-Focused Nutritionist, let me help you use food as medicine, in customized, realistic steps! I add a functional nutrition approach, with herbs and supplements as needed, to discover the root cause of symptoms and develop a personalized plan that evolves with you while you optimize your health. This approach works incredibly well to lift mood, minimize medications, lose weight, increase energy, balance blood sugar and insulin levels, lower blood pressure, and sleep better.
(224) 507-1973 View (224) 507-1973
Photo of Cecille Biaggi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Cecille Biaggi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I support clients with a range of nutrition needs, including weight management, bariatric nutrition, kidney disease, and hypertension.
Cecille Biaggi, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian passionate about helping people build a healthier relationship with food while improving overall health. She supports individuals with weight management, metabolic health, and chronic conditions using practical, evidence-based strategies. Cecille believes nutrition should feel realistic and sustainable—not restrictive—and helps clients build habits that fit their lifestyle. Her goal is to boost confidence, improve health markers, and create long-term habits that last.
I support clients with a range of nutrition needs, including weight management, bariatric nutrition, kidney disease, and hypertension.
Cecille Biaggi, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian passionate about helping people build a healthier relationship with food while improving overall health. She supports individuals with weight management, metabolic health, and chronic conditions using practical, evidence-based strategies. Cecille believes nutrition should feel realistic and sustainable—not restrictive—and helps clients build habits that fit their lifestyle. Her goal is to boost confidence, improve health markers, and create long-term habits that last.
(872) 278-3254 View (872) 278-3254
Photo of Kristin Paver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Kristin Paver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive Issues (IBS, IBD), Crohn's, Celiac, Weight Management for Adults/Adolescents, Diabetes, GERD, Allergy Nutrition, PCOS, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disorders, High Blood Pressure, and other conditions.
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive Issues (IBS, IBD), Crohn's, Celiac, Weight Management for Adults/Adolescents, Diabetes, GERD, Allergy Nutrition, PCOS, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disorders, High Blood Pressure, and other conditions.
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
(205) 880-1640 View (205) 880-1640
Photo of Demi Evrigenis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Demi Evrigenis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach.
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach.
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
(502) 218-4378 View (502) 218-4378
Photo of Riley Maloney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Riley Maloney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60637
Riley’s approach to care is rooted in developing a strong rapport with the client and making client’s feel safe and heard. Per her nutrition philosophy, Riley believes in nutrition care that is a mutual conversation where a client can have a say in their care, as this will lead to more sustainable, long-term progress; additionally, Riley practices from a non-diet and Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective for all clients, regardless of diagnosis. Riley prioritizes individualized treatment, tailoring interventions to meet clients developmental, financial, physical and emotional needs.
Riley’s approach to care is rooted in developing a strong rapport with the client and making client’s feel safe and heard. Per her nutrition philosophy, Riley believes in nutrition care that is a mutual conversation where a client can have a say in their care, as this will lead to more sustainable, long-term progress; additionally, Riley practices from a non-diet and Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective for all clients, regardless of diagnosis. Riley prioritizes individualized treatment, tailoring interventions to meet clients developmental, financial, physical and emotional needs.
(210) 791-9924 View (210) 791-9924
Photo of Adrienne DePaul, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, LDN
Adrienne DePaul
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60653
Specialities include working with clients that currently have PCOS, Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, Hormonal Imbalances, Thyroid Issues, Low Fodmap, Disordered Eating, High Blood Pressure, IBD, IBS, GI Conditions, Infertility Nutrition.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft helping clients whom have PCOS, interests in Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, or Weight Management. I help clients to craft personalized, attainable, and sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes that support their health. By collaboratively designing small, impactful steps that preserve quality of life and promote personal choice, I help my clients achieve their goals from better blood sugar control to increased energy.
Specialities include working with clients that currently have PCOS, Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, Hormonal Imbalances, Thyroid Issues, Low Fodmap, Disordered Eating, High Blood Pressure, IBD, IBS, GI Conditions, Infertility Nutrition.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft helping clients whom have PCOS, interests in Pre/PostPartum nutrition, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes, or Weight Management. I help clients to craft personalized, attainable, and sustainable dietary and lifestyle changes that support their health. By collaboratively designing small, impactful steps that preserve quality of life and promote personal choice, I help my clients achieve their goals from better blood sugar control to increased energy.
(312) 517-2296 View (312) 517-2296
Photo of Marissa Kelley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES, NBC-HWC
Marissa Kelley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES, NBC-HWC
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
I work with clients on weight loss both with and without a GLP1, cardiovascular and kidney disease.
I will meet you where you're at and help close the gap to where you want to be. We will build a partnership, knowing you are the expert in your health. I will provide space to think about what might be different and help you brainstorm around the next step. We will create tiny changes and build on your success.
I work with clients on weight loss both with and without a GLP1, cardiovascular and kidney disease.
I will meet you where you're at and help close the gap to where you want to be. We will build a partnership, knowing you are the expert in your health. I will provide space to think about what might be different and help you brainstorm around the next step. We will create tiny changes and build on your success.
(708) 905-4797 View (708) 905-4797
Photo of Mary Ann Kelly - Dietitian of the Desert, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CIC, ISAK
Dietitian of the Desert
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CIC, ISAK
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Every person is unique and my goal is to support your personal health & performance goals with a customized plan. Sessions can be scheduled in person or remotely. I believe in Testing, Not Guessing! Micro-nutrient Levels, Microbiome Test or our Food & Chemical Sensitivity Testing can be completed when local or when on the move. Onsite services also include Body Composition & Metabolic Testing, workshops & seminars and camp support! NEW! Respiratory Training will help you achieve your personal best at altitude or in the gym!. Personalized Probiotics and Supplement Recommendations to match your body type and goals!
Every person is unique and my goal is to support your personal health & performance goals with a customized plan. Sessions can be scheduled in person or remotely. I believe in Testing, Not Guessing! Micro-nutrient Levels, Microbiome Test or our Food & Chemical Sensitivity Testing can be completed when local or when on the move. Onsite services also include Body Composition & Metabolic Testing, workshops & seminars and camp support! NEW! Respiratory Training will help you achieve your personal best at altitude or in the gym!. Personalized Probiotics and Supplement Recommendations to match your body type and goals!
(760) 878-5181 View (760) 878-5181
Photo of Emily Ramos, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CNSC
Emily Ramos
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CNSC
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
Emily’s ideal patients are individuals who are ready to make meaningful changes in their lives. She especially enjoys working with those experiencing GI disorders, as these conditions can be deeply debilitating and require strong motivation. Emily also loves working with pediatric patients, finding joy in helping children build healthy nutrition habits that can positively impact their lives long term.
Emily’s ideal patients are individuals who are ready to make meaningful changes in their lives. She especially enjoys working with those experiencing GI disorders, as these conditions can be deeply debilitating and require strong motivation. Emily also loves working with pediatric patients, finding joy in helping children build healthy nutrition habits that can positively impact their lives long term.
(785) 665-2186 View (785) 665-2186
Photo of Jenna Brown, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
Jenna Brown
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Jenna is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Sport Dietetics. She focuses on fueling for exercise/athletic performance, health, and weight management. She utilizes a food first approach and recommends supplements as needed to fill in micronutrient gaps. She builds individualized nutrition plans for weight management, and body composition changes. She provides a judgement free zone where you can feel comfortable to share your goals, current dietary practices, and exercise regimen. Jenna believes there are no healthy and unhealthy, good or bad foods, rather every day foods and every now and then foods.
Jenna is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Sport Dietetics. She focuses on fueling for exercise/athletic performance, health, and weight management. She utilizes a food first approach and recommends supplements as needed to fill in micronutrient gaps. She builds individualized nutrition plans for weight management, and body composition changes. She provides a judgement free zone where you can feel comfortable to share your goals, current dietary practices, and exercise regimen. Jenna believes there are no healthy and unhealthy, good or bad foods, rather every day foods and every now and then foods.
(351) 208-1409 View (351) 208-1409
Kidney Disease/Renal Nutritionists and Dietitians
What are the symptoms of kidney disease?
The kidneys play a vital role in filtering blood and removing waste products from the body. Symptoms of kidney disease thus typically reflect the kidneys' reduced ability to perform these functions effectively; such symptoms include nausea, vomiting, changes in urination patterns, fatigue, hypertension (high blood pressure), and swelling or fluid retention in the body. Because kidney disease tends to be chronic, symptoms often develop gradually over time. Fortunately, diet modifications and lifestyle changes can be particularly important in managing kidney disease and preserving kidney function. Early intervention and lifestyle modifications are critical to prevent disease progression to end-stage kidney disease, which may require very invasive treatments like dialysis or a kidney transplant.

What foods should I avoid if I have kidney disease?
Managing diet is crucial for individuals with kidney disease to maintain kidney health. Specifically, it is important for individuals with kidney disease to avoid foods high in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, as impaired kidneys may struggle to regulate these nutrients effectively, leading to complications such as hypertension and fluid retention. Choosing to prepare meals at home and avoiding processed foods—such as chips, canned goods, and soups—can significantly reduce sodium intake. Additionally, limiting consumption of high-potassium foods like bananas, oranges, beans, and dairy products, as well as phosphorus-rich foods such as whole grains, nuts, and certain dairy items, is important. Working with a dietitian specializing in renal nutrition can be a great option for those with kidney disease, as dietitians can provide tailored dietary strategies to support kidney function and offer individualized guidance on specific foods someone should avoid depending on the stage of their disease.

Can kidney disease be prevented with nutrition?
Adopting a healthy and balanced diet can play a critical role in reducing the risk of developing kidney disease. A diet that promotes healthy cholesterol levels and helps control blood pressure is particularly important, as these health factors can contribute to kidney disease risk. Additional strategies to support kidney health include limiting sodium intake to a maximum of 2,300 mg per day and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Managing diabetes and reducing consumption of high-sugar foods are essential, given that diabetes is a major contributor to kidney disease development. These dietary practices, alongside regular medical check-ups and lifestyle adjustments, can help mitigate one's risk of developing kidney disease.

What diet is best for people with kidney disease?
Instead of focusing on a single type of food, it is recommended that individuals with kidney disease follow dietary guidelines tailored to support kidney health. This often involves managing the intake of certain nutrients, such as sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, and maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber, healthy fats, and lean protein. Nutrition experts also often recommend the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet for individuals with kidney disease. Known for its ability to lower blood pressure and improve heart health, the DASH diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy while reducing saturated fats. For those undergoing dialysis due to end-stage kidney disease, there may be additional dietary needs. Monitoring fluid intake and protein consumption closely is particularly crucial, as dialysis treatments can affect fluid and protein levels in the body.