Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a significant global health issue, affecting an estimated 13.4% of the population worldwide. In the U.S. alone, over 40 million people suffer from CKD. Despite this, effective treatments for the condition are limited. However, there are potent remedies for kidney disease that many CKD patients are unaware of. A plant-based diet low in protein and phosphorus is often recommended for kidney health, but it is not widely promoted. In contrast, people in the U.S. and many Western countries are taught from a young age to eat lots of meat for health, yet meat and meat products can negatively impact kidney and heart health. This book highlights this with scientific studies to support the claim. Proper hydration is also critical for kidney health, though it's not always emphasized. The book explains not only the importance of drinking water for kidney function but also how to do it correctly. It also discusses how certain vitamins, teas, and herbs can improve kidney function, potentially halting or even reversing CKD, and avoiding dialysis. Relevant published studies are included for further reading and evidence.
This book, written for the average reader, offers valuable information for CKD patients ranging from those with mild cases to those needing to prepare for dialysis or a kidney transplant. It presents scientifically-backed methods to slow CKD progression, including a section on a Smart Diet tailored for CKD patients. This diet can not only slow the disease but also help patients live longer, healthier lives. The book addresses common health issues that arise with a CKD diagnosis and aims to ease concerns for most patients, while offering advanced strategies for those with severe CKD to potentially delay dialysis for years. It also challenges the common recommendation of very low-protein diets, explaining that these may not be beneficial and could even be harmful. The book provides the latest treatment guidelines from international kidney experts and is structured to cater to all CKD patients, with early chapters providing general information and later chapters addressing advanced CKD. For those who want a summary, the final chapter offers an overview of the book's content. It also explains reversible kidney conditions and debunks myths about CKD treatments that offer no benefit and could be dangerous. For patients wondering if dialysis is in their future, the book outlines ways to predict the likelihood and provides pros and cons of different options, including kidney transplants and dialysis, with an emphasis on pre-dialysis transplants and home peritoneal dialysis as the best options for most CKD patients.
