Kidneys are the most significant organs that perform many complicated functions to keep the body in balance. Healthy kidneys balance the salts and minerals in the blood, to keep your body working properly as it should. However, most people suffer from kidney disease due to several reasons such as an inactive lifestyle, unhealthy food, excessive consumption of alcohol and drugs, and many more.  Kidney disease frequently worsens over time and may lead to kidney damage. In this blog, we have discussed How to Manage Chronic Kidney Disease with Diet and Lifestyle Changes. 

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease

CKD means your kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly and start to lose their function. Early detection and management are important to protect from further failure and manage kidney health. The most prominent natural method to manage CKD is via a well-balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. 

Symptoms of CKD 

You may not have many symptoms when chronic kidney disease is in the early stages. Symptoms of renal disease develop over time if kidney damage progresses slowly. Some common symptoms are:

• Fatigue: Feeling overtired or weak is an obvious symptom because the kidneys are unable to filter waste and toxins from the blood.
• Increased or decreased urination: Increased or decreased frequency of urination can lead to renal disease. 
• chest pain: Chest pain is a symptom of CKD when fluid accumulates around the lining of the heart. 
• Shortness of Breath: Feeling like you can not breathe properly. It can be caused by low iron levels, extra fluid in the lungs, build-up of acid in the blood.
• Dry and Itchy Skin: Kidney dysfunction can cause bone problems, resulting in dry, itchy skin.
• Dizziness and Trouble Concentrating: Anemia can lead to kidney failure means your brain is not getting sufficient oxygen, leading to memory issues, trouble with concentration, and dizziness.
• Loss of Appetite and Nausea: Waste product accumulation in the blood (uremia) can cause reduced appetite, nausea, and vomiting.

If you are experiencing any of these mentioned symptoms of CKD, you can book an online video consultation jsl1.in/payu

Causes of Chronic Renal Disease

Understanding the causes of chronic renal failure is essential for Early detection and management of the disease effectively. Here are the common causes:

• Diabetes: High blood glucose levels can diminish the tiny filters of the kidneys.
• High blood pressure: High blood pressure can strain the kidneys’ small blood vessels and prevent them from working properly.

• high cholesterol: A build-up of fatty deposits in the blood vessels supplying your kidneys, which may impair their ability to function properly.

• Kidney Infections: Frequent kidney infections can cause long-term damage to the kidneys.
• Age: CKD risk rises with age as kidney function automatically decreases over time.
• Genetic Disorders: Inherited conditions, including Alport syndrome and Fabry disease, can affect kidney function.

By addressing these risk factors through Ayurveda including a balanced diet, lifestyle adjustments, and appropriate Ayurvedic treatments, individuals can reduce their risk of CKD effectively.

Ayurvedic treatment for CKD

Ayurveda is an ancient medicine system that provides a comprehensive approach to maintaining Chronic renal Disease. According to Ayurvedic principles, the primary cause of CKD is imbalances in the body’s doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha and the accumulation of toxins or ama. Ayurvedic treatment for CKD mainly emphasizes restoring balance and removing toxins via dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, and lifestyle modifications.

Ayurvedic herbs for CKD include:

• Punarnava: This herb is well known for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to improve kidney dysfunctions.
• Gokshura: This herb can help in detoxifying kidneys and improving kidney function.
• Varun: Varun has anti-inflammatory properties that support urinary tract health and reduce inflammation.

Watch this video to learn about how HiiMS hospital helps patients improve their kidney disease: 

Managing Chronic Kidney Disease through Diet and Lifestyle Changes:

A specific diet and some lifestyle adjustments play a vital role in managing chronic renal disorders.  Here we have discussed both the natural ways in detail, which are given below –

The Role of Diet in Managing CKD

A well-planned diet or Chronic kidney disease diet,  is one of the most effective ways to manage Chronic Kidney Disease. The main motive of  CKD dietary guidelines is to control blood pressure, reduce waste buildup, and maintain balanced electrolytes. Therefore, You need to change what you eat to manage your chronic renal ailment. 

Sodium Management

This mineral is found in most of the foods, but Sodium affects your blood pressure. Healthy kidneys keep sodium levels in maintenance. In the case of CKD, extra sodium and fluids accumulate in your body. This can cause several problems such as high blood pressure, shortness of breath, and fluid buildup around your heart and lungs. 

Limit Phosphorus 

When your kidneys are healthy, it helps to remove the phosphorus you don’t need. However,  if you have renal illness, your phosphorus levels can get too high, leading to a risk for heart disease. 

To manage CKD, 

• Choosing foods with low levels of phosphorus 
• Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables
• Drinking light-colored sodas
• Limiting dairy products
• Avoiding  processed foods

Reduce Your Potassium Intake

Potassium is beneficial for your nerves and muscles to work properly. However, if you have renal infections, your body can not filter out extra potassium, causing serious heart problems. So, always try to eat low-potassium foods such as apple and apple juice, strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, pineapple, peach, beans, and cucumber.

Fluid Control

Monitor fluid intake, especially if you have advanced chronic renal disease. So, discuss with your healthcare practitioners to determine the right amount of fluids for your condition.

Importance of a Chronic kidney disease diet:

For people with CKD, diet plays a crucial role in managing CKD in various ways, which are given below:

• Controlling Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is a leading cause of CKD. A healthy diet can help manage hypertension or high blood pressure.
• Reducing Waste Buildup: Kidneys filter waste products and toxins from the blood. A proper diet reduces the accumulation of these substances.
• Maintaining Electrolyte Balance: Imbalanced sodium, potassium, and phosphorus levels can lead to severe health problems in CKD patients. Dietary adjustments ensure these electrolytes remain at safe levels.
• Managing Symptoms: A tailored diet can mitigate symptoms including fatigue, swelling, and nausea.

By following  CKD dietary guidelines, patients can control symptoms, maintain kidney health, and improve overall well-being.  

Ayurvedic Dietary Recommendations for CKD

Ayurveda mainly focuses on a healthy diet that meets individual needs. Ayurvedic CKD dietary guidelines focus on easily digestible, nourishing foods that support kidney function. 

Recommended foods include:

Fresh fruits and vegetables: Low-potassium food such as apples, cucumbers, and green beans.

Whole grains: Whole grains like rice and barley are easier to digest.

Herbal teas: Coriander and fennel tea to support digestion and support kidney health.

Ayurvedic recipes often include vegetable soups, and herbal teas to enhance kidney health. 

Detoxification therapies:  Panchakarma helps to toxins and improve kidney function.

Lifestyle Changes for Better Kidney Health

Besides a Chronic kidney disease diet, incorporating certain lifestyle modifications is also equally important to maintain kidney health and slow the progression of the disease.  Here are some lifestyle changes that can support your kidneys.

Regular  Physical Exercise 

Incorporating regular exercise can help to reduce blood pressure, and improve cardiovascular health, all of which are important for managing CKD. Having an aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily supports the kidneys to do work effectively.

Stress Management

Relaxation practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises help to reduce stress and support kidney health.

Adequate Sleep

Ensure 7-9 hours of quality sleep allow the body to repair and rejuvenate,  which is crucial for kidney function and overall health.

Quitting Smoking

Smoking increases blood pressure and reduces blood flow to the kidneys, which can worsen kidney damage. So, it is essential to look for Ayurvedic healthcare providers, and smoking cessation programs for support to avoid smoking. 

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Being overweight can raise the risk of developing conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, causing CKD. To manage CKD, follow a balanced diet tailored to CKD, set realistic weight loss goals, and track your progress.

Limit alcohol intake 

Drinking too much alcohol can lead to blood pressure problems and add extra calories. For managing CKD, it is essential to stop the consumption of alcohol.

Incorporating these lifestyle modifications can considerably manage Chronic Kidney Disease more effectively. 

Conclusion

Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to managing CKD including CKD dietary guidelines, lifestyle changes, and  Ayurvedic treatment for CKD. By incorporating these natural methods, you can improve your kidney health and quality of life. 

Shuddhi, , and clinics provide holistic and natural care for Ayurvedic treatments for CKD. 

If you are facing a problem of chronic renal disease, it is essential to consult with Ayurveda healthcare providers to develop a customized treatment plan that meets your needs and promotes optimal kidney health.

FAQs:

What are the symptoms of CKD?

There are some common symptoms including fatigue, swelling, frequent urination, and nausea.

What are the common causes of CKD?

Some common causes of CKD are diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, glomerulonephritis, and genetic disorders.

Why is diet important for renal disease patients?

A specific diet for CKD helps control symptoms, prevent complications, and slow disease progression.

What are the dietary goals for CKD management?

Dietary goals include managing protein, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and fluid balance.

What are common Ayurvedic treatments for chronic renal issues?

The common ayurvedic treatments include herbal medicines, detoxification processes or Panchakarma, and dietary recommendations that help to support kidney function.

How does Ayurveda perspective chronic renal illness?

Ayurveda views CKD as an imbalance in the doshas and aims to restore balance through natural treatments.

How can I consult with Shuddhi Hospital for CKD management?

Contact Shuddhi Hospital directly to book an online appointment by visiting their website or with their team of healthcare professionals.