Acupuncture had been shown to help relieve symptoms. I have my first appointment in a few weeks!
August 13
Great question! While there's no magic natural cure, there are several lifestyle changes that may help support kidney function and potentially improve kidney numbers over time.
Here are some natural approaches worth discussing with a nephrologist or dietitian:
- Eat a kidney-friendly diet β Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables Show Full Answer
Great question! While there's no magic natural cure, there are several lifestyle changes that may help support kidney function and potentially improve kidney numbers over time.
Here are some natural approaches worth discussing with a nephrologist or dietitian:
- Eat a kidney-friendly diet β Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limiting salt, potassium, phosphorus, and protein may reduce the workload on the kidneys
- Stay physically active β Gentle exercise like walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga for about 30 minutes most days can help slow kidney disease progression
- Stay hydrated β Plain water and certain teas (without high-potassium additives) are good choices
- Maintain a healthy weight β Extra weight forces the kidneys to work harder
- Quit smoking β Smoking worsens kidney damage, so quitting can slow decline
- Limit alcohol β It can raise blood pressure and interfere with medications It's also important to be cautious with "natural" supplements β many marketed as kidney-friendly can actually cause harm. For example:
- Turmeric in large amounts can damage kidneys
- Potassium supplements can be dangerous with kidney disease
- Licorice root can raise blood pressure and worsen fluid buildup
- High-protein supplements can overwork the kidneys
- Vitamin C and calcium supplements can lead to kidney calcification
Always check with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement, even herbal or over-the-counter ones.
August 13