There is a persistent myth in healthcare that patients with cirrhosis, or advanced liver disease, should restrict protein intake to help manage their disease. This stems from decades old research that has since been disproven. In fact, people with advanced liver disease are at increased risk of protein-energy malnutrition and every effort should be [...]
Patients with end-stage renal disease who are unable or are waiting to receive a transplant rely on dialysis for life saving care. Dialysis replaces the role of the kidneys by removing waste products and excess fluid. Fluid overload is a common consequence as hemodialysis patients struggle to limit sodium and fluid consumption, making it difficult [...]
Collagen supplements are often featured in ads, search engines, television, and social media as a modern miracle to fight skin aging as well as other benefits. Consequently, many people have incorporated collagen supplements in their daily routine in hopes to support the health of their skin, joints, and hair. But what exactly is collagen [...]
Over the last several years, vitamin D has gained notoriety in mainstream healthcare, but clinicians working in CKD, ESRD, and dialysis have long been aware of this important nutrient. As CKD progresses, vitamin D levels are compromised due to the kidneys’ declining function and ability to activate vitamin D. This in turn reduces absorption of [...]
The weight loss industry rakes in billions of dollars every year as millions of adults in the U.S. attempt, or in many cases reattempt, to lose weight. Only 20% of people who achieve the gold standard goal of 10% weight loss will go on to maintain it. With so much money, time, and effort being [...]
Have you ever counseled a patient who frequently seems to be in an “off” mood? What does that look like? Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines mood as the following: “predominant emotion” or “a prevailing attitude.” When someone is “moody” they may display one or more of these emotions: Anger Sadness Tension Gloominess Fearfulness Perhaps the patient’s seemingly [...]
In an ideal world, people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) would all have easy access and a strong desire to follow a nutrient-dense, well-balanced, kidney- and/or dialysis-friendly diet. Doing so could alleviate many of the burdens that accompany the disease and support overall improvement in quality of life. Unfortunately, [...]
Health for the Holidays With holiday season in full swing amid an ongoing pandemic and smack dab in the middle of cold and flu season, now is a great time to remind dialysis patients what healthy food choices can fit into their holiday plans. By providing a few prevention tips during the holidays as well [...]
According to the Centers for Disease Control, only 23% of adults above the age of 18 years old meet the recommended guidelines for aerobic and muscle strengthening exercise. In the chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end stage renal disease (ESRD) population subset, the percentages are likely even lower due to a common misconception that they [...]
In chronic disease we talk a lot about inflammation. A prolonged state of inflammation, which is observed in chronic illnesses, leads to increased cellular damage and oxidative stress. Sometimes we forget this damage can extend to all parts of the body, including our brains. Under healthy circumstances, inflammation is a good thing, responsible for clearing [...]
