Kidney Disease/Renal Nutritionists and Dietitians in Willowbrook, IL

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More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Ellen Handlan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Ellen Handlan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My experience spans various settings including clinical inpatient, bariatric outpatient, kidney disease treatment, weight management, sports nutrition, and functional wellness.
As a practicing Registered Dietitian and Certified Nutrition Coach, I am focused on helping clients discover joy and inspiration while living a healthy lifestyle. My approach is highly personalized and emphasizes balance and moderation, as opposed to restriction and elimination. Together, we'll explore your lifestyle and habits, building a fully customized plan you feel confident succeeding with. I'll be there for you every step of the way, offering warm and enthusiastic support in a judgment-free and secure space.
My experience spans various settings including clinical inpatient, bariatric outpatient, kidney disease treatment, weight management, sports nutrition, and functional wellness.
As a practicing Registered Dietitian and Certified Nutrition Coach, I am focused on helping clients discover joy and inspiration while living a healthy lifestyle. My approach is highly personalized and emphasizes balance and moderation, as opposed to restriction and elimination. Together, we'll explore your lifestyle and habits, building a fully customized plan you feel confident succeeding with. I'll be there for you every step of the way, offering warm and enthusiastic support in a judgment-free and secure space.
(877) 379-5460 View (877) 379-5460
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
Photo of Daniela Jannette, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Daniela Jannette
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Online Only
I specialize in eating disorders/disordered eating, emotional eating, diabetes or pre-diabetes, general health, heart health, sports & performance nutrition, chronic kidney disease, IBS, gut health, thyroid disorders, weight stabilization, weight loss medications, tube feeding (EN), total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and cancer.
I understand that life’s challenges are complex and unique to each individual. Busy schedules, limited nutrition resources, and complicated relationships with food are just some of the many factors that contribute to failed diet and lifestyle changes. I’m here to help you establish a healthy relationship with food and guide you through the connection between mind, body, and spirit to accomplish your goals. I firmly believe that wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth, “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease“.
I specialize in eating disorders/disordered eating, emotional eating, diabetes or pre-diabetes, general health, heart health, sports & performance nutrition, chronic kidney disease, IBS, gut health, thyroid disorders, weight stabilization, weight loss medications, tube feeding (EN), total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and cancer.
I understand that life’s challenges are complex and unique to each individual. Busy schedules, limited nutrition resources, and complicated relationships with food are just some of the many factors that contribute to failed diet and lifestyle changes. I’m here to help you establish a healthy relationship with food and guide you through the connection between mind, body, and spirit to accomplish your goals. I firmly believe that wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth, “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease“.
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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 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 Nell Harloe, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Nell Harloe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Online Only
I’ve helped my patients manage various health conditions including weight management, diabetes, bariatric, gastrointestinal health, oncology, renal, cardiovascular, PCOS, menopause, thyroid health and autoimmune disorders.
In addition to receiving my B.S. in Dietetics from Baylor University, I completed my Masters in Dietetics from Sam Houston State, am a Board-Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) and received my certification in Adult Weight Management from the Academy of Dietetics. I am up to date with all weight loss medications on the market.
I’ve helped my patients manage various health conditions including weight management, diabetes, bariatric, gastrointestinal health, oncology, renal, cardiovascular, PCOS, menopause, thyroid health and autoimmune disorders.
In addition to receiving my B.S. in Dietetics from Baylor University, I completed my Masters in Dietetics from Sam Houston State, am a Board-Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) and received my certification in Adult Weight Management from the Academy of Dietetics. I am up to date with all weight loss medications on the market.
(855) 624-5438 View (855) 624-5438
Photo of Caitlin Hexum, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, RD, LD
Caitlin Hexum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, RD, LD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for weight management, bariatric care, eating disorders, and overall health. They often feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to navigate nutrition advice and want a balanced, sustainable approach. I provide collaborative, individualized care focused on realistic goals, behavior change, and improving their relationship with food. My approach is supportive and practical, helping clients build confidence, consistency, and long-term habits that fit their lifestyle.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for weight management, bariatric care, eating disorders, and overall health. They often feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to navigate nutrition advice and want a balanced, sustainable approach. I provide collaborative, individualized care focused on realistic goals, behavior change, and improving their relationship with food. My approach is supportive and practical, helping clients build confidence, consistency, and long-term habits that fit their lifestyle.
(210) 791-9924 View (210) 791-9924
Photo of Kerri Holmquist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654
Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
(704) 859-2677 View (704) 859-2677
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 Danielle Hendrix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
Danielle Hendrix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
(346) 666-7394 View (346) 666-7394
Photo of Samantha Rose Lorenzo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Samantha Rose Lorenzo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
I specialize in obesity/weight reduction, sports nutrition, women's health (Menopause, Perimenopause, PCOS, etc), Thyroid, diabetes, renal, cardiac (hypertension/high cholesterol), and Gut Health/GI conditions (IBS, Diverticulitis, Celiac, etc.).
My goal is to empower my clients with the tools necessary for achieving lasting success in their pursuit of a healthier life. I accomplish this by incorporating nutrition education, behavioral and lifestyle modifications, and physical activity into my guidance.
I specialize in obesity/weight reduction, sports nutrition, women's health (Menopause, Perimenopause, PCOS, etc), Thyroid, diabetes, renal, cardiac (hypertension/high cholesterol), and Gut Health/GI conditions (IBS, Diverticulitis, Celiac, etc.).
My goal is to empower my clients with the tools necessary for achieving lasting success in their pursuit of a healthier life. I accomplish this by incorporating nutrition education, behavioral and lifestyle modifications, and physical activity into my guidance.
(717) 897-6711 View (717) 897-6711
Photo of Melissa Horstman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Melissa Horstman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
(469) 436-4959 View (469) 436-4959
Photo of Kendall Shanks, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Kendall Shanks
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
As I grow older, I realize I want to help adults and older adults continue living their best lives. My ideal client is someone who doesn’t judge themselves by their chronological age, but wants to live healthfully and simply needs the right tools, guidance, and confidence to inspire both themselves and their families.
As I grow older, I realize I want to help adults and older adults continue living their best lives. My ideal client is someone who doesn’t judge themselves by their chronological age, but wants to live healthfully and simply needs the right tools, guidance, and confidence to inspire both themselves and their families.
(813) 590-1238 View (813) 590-1238
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 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 Boguslawa L Susol, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Boguslawa L Susol
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I’m a Registered Dietitian and the owner of BLS Nutrition, a nutrition practice based in Schaumburg, Chicago Suburbs. From Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) and tailored meal planning to practical nutrition counseling and culinary guidance, I provide the tools and support needed to take charge of your health and feel your best. I am passionate about empowering individuals of all ages to take charge of their health with personalized nutrition strategies. My practice is open to everyone, and I strive to help individuals of all cultural backgrounds to the best of my ability. Additionally, children are always welcome in my office!
I’m a Registered Dietitian and the owner of BLS Nutrition, a nutrition practice based in Schaumburg, Chicago Suburbs. From Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) and tailored meal planning to practical nutrition counseling and culinary guidance, I provide the tools and support needed to take charge of your health and feel your best. I am passionate about empowering individuals of all ages to take charge of their health with personalized nutrition strategies. My practice is open to everyone, and I strive to help individuals of all cultural backgrounds to the best of my ability. Additionally, children are always welcome in my office!
(872) 395-6294 View (872) 395-6294
Photo of Brittany Norem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Brittany Norem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60638
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
(904) 467-7389 View (904) 467-7389
Photo of Jose L Guzman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Jose L Guzman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Online Only
I started Viva Real Renal Care as a resource to help people suffering with chronic kidney disease, but our services don’t stop there: We’re prepared to help patients address a range of health conditions that intersect directly with diet. We are based in New Mexico, but can see patients virtually across the country using your existing health insurance benefits, typically at no cost to you. We are also bilingual, and speak both Spanish, English, and the unique Spanglish dialects that live throughout the U.S. We look forward to serving you and empowering you to change your life!
I started Viva Real Renal Care as a resource to help people suffering with chronic kidney disease, but our services don’t stop there: We’re prepared to help patients address a range of health conditions that intersect directly with diet. We are based in New Mexico, but can see patients virtually across the country using your existing health insurance benefits, typically at no cost to you. We are also bilingual, and speak both Spanish, English, and the unique Spanglish dialects that live throughout the U.S. We look forward to serving you and empowering you to change your life!
(505) 355-0306 View (505) 355-0306
Photo of Daneris Morales, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, LD, LDN
Daneris Morales
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, LD, LDN
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking to heal their relationship with food, body, and self through intuitive eating and personalized nutrition support. They often feel disconnected, stuck in dieting cycles, or overwhelmed by food rules, and want a more compassionate, sustainable approach. I help them reconnect with their body’s needs through 1:1, individualized guidance that is supportive and deeply personalized. Together, we focus on behavior change, self-trust, and developing a healthier, more peaceful relationship with food and eating.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking to heal their relationship with food, body, and self through intuitive eating and personalized nutrition support. They often feel disconnected, stuck in dieting cycles, or overwhelmed by food rules, and want a more compassionate, sustainable approach. I help them reconnect with their body’s needs through 1:1, individualized guidance that is supportive and deeply personalized. Together, we focus on behavior change, self-trust, and developing a healthier, more peaceful relationship with food and eating.
(708) 381-1690 View (708) 381-1690
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
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.