Is Weight Loss Good for Kidneys?

Is weight loss beneficial for kidney disease? Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall wellness and can have a positive impact on various aspects of health, including kidney disease. Excessive weight and obesity can increase the risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and other related complications, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, which are the leading causes of CKD.

Weight loss can help reduce the risk of developing these conditions and can also improve the management of existing CKD by reducing the strain on the kidneys.

However, it’s important to approach weight loss healthily and sustainably, with the guidance of a healthcare professional, to ensure that it doesn’t have any adverse effects on the kidneys or other aspects of health.

In this article on Elegant Hoopoe, we will explore the link between weight loss and kidney health and discuss safe and effective strategies for individuals with kidney disease to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

The Link Between Excess Weight and Chronic Kidney Disease

Excess weight and obesity are major risk factors for the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products and excess fluids from the body, and excessive weight can put a strain on them, causing damage over time.

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The risk of developing CKD is higher in individuals who are overweight or obese, as well as those with other related conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

In addition, excess weight can also contribute to the progression of CKD and increase the risk of related complications such as cardiovascular disease. Maintaining a healthy weight is therefore important for reducing the risk of developing CKD and managing existing CKD.

Study: How fitness affects kidney disease risks

It is no surprise to anyone that exercising is good for overall health but, the link between fitness and kidney diseases has not been studied enough until recently. Higher physical fitness and maintaining body weight is shown to be effective in lowering kidney disease risk in adults with obesity. Note that losing weight is not linked with lowering the risk, but fitness is.

The medical director of  clinical research at Drexel University of Philadelphia, Meera Harhay siad “We need to know more about the optimal strategies to reduce kidney disease risk in adults with obesity”

It is clear that being overweight and obese can increase the chance of kidney disease which is a leading cause of death in the US. Hormonal changes that happen because of the extra fat in the body can lead to more body fluids and raise blood pressure and encourage insulin resistance. All these conditions will make kidneys work harder that they should  which will ultimately make them damaged and scarred. “The kidneys can only compensate so much before there is permanent damage” Said Harhay.

In this study miss Harhay and her colleges used the data of the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, which has been following over 6500 middle aged adults in US, tracking their weight and other health related factors for more than ten years. The team chosed 1208 individuals which fit the definition of obese.

This study showed that for each 11 pounds gained, the risk of getting a kidney disease increased up to 34%. However, losing weight did not show any decrease of that risk. This suggest that preventing weight gain might be more effective in preventing kidney diseases.

Other aspects of this study showed that individuals who walked slower than 2 miles per hour had 57 percent more chance of getting a kidney disease than those who walked faster.

Once the scar tissue forms in the kidneys, the damage is permanent and can not be revered. But regular working out may be helpful to survive that damage.

Harhay reported that the benefit could be due to the anti-inflammatory effects of regular physical activity or better health in the heart and blood vessels. “The mechanisms by which exercise and higher fitness are protective to the kidneys represent an important knowledge gap,” she also said. “For about 2 decades now, there has been in-depth research into what is the stronger factor for our longevity and disease risk,” said Matthew Ahmadi, PhD at the University of Sydney.

In one study conducted in 2022 by Ahmadi, People who walked faster had nearly 36percent less chances of dying than those who walked slowly. ( over a period of 7 years). Another study done in 2021, showed that starting regular exercise routine countered the risk if early death linked to high BMI whether this exercise routine led to weight loss or not.

Please note that some heart pounding exercises can pose side effects for those suffering from kidney damage. Kidney related problems is linked to muscle loss and loss of muscle strength. This is why resistance training might be a good option. Also note that  you should always consult with your doctor before starting an exercise routine or even a change in your diet.

The Benefits of Weight Loss for Kidney Function

Weight loss can have numerous benefits for kidney function, particularly for individuals with CKD. Losing weight can help reduce the workload on the kidneys, which can improve their function and slow down the progression of CKD.

In addition, weight loss can help manage related conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, which can further reduce the strain on the kidneys. Studies have shown that even modest weight loss can have a significant impact on kidney function, with improvements seen in measures such as glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and albuminuria.

Furthermore, weight loss can also improve overall health and quality of life, reducing the risk of related complications and improving energy levels and physical activity. It’s important to note that weight loss should be achieved through healthy and sustainable strategies, and individuals with CKD should work closely with their healthcare provider to ensure that weight loss efforts do not have any negative impact on their kidney function or overall health.

Safe and Healthy Weight Loss Strategies for Individuals with Kidney Disease

Individuals with kidney disease need to be cautious about their weight loss strategies to avoid negatively affecting their kidneys or overall health. Here are some safe and healthy weight loss strategies for individuals with kidney disease:

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Work with a healthcare professional

It’s important to work with a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian or nephrologist, who can develop a personalized weight loss plan based on individual needs and dietary restrictions.

Focus on a balanced diet

A balanced diet that is low in sodium, phosphorus, and protein can help individuals with kidney disease achieve their weight loss goals while also supporting kidney health. This may include incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into the diet while limiting high-sodium and high-phosphorus foods.

Monitor calorie intake

Consuming fewer calories than the body needs can lead to weight loss. However, individuals with kidney disease should not restrict their calorie intake too drastically, as this can have negative effects on their overall health. It’s important to work with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate calorie goal based on individual needs.

Exercise regularly

Regular exercise can help individuals with kidney disease lose weight and improve their overall health. Low-impact exercises such as walking, cycling, or swimming can be beneficial, but it’s important to discuss exercise options with a healthcare professional first.

Avoid fad diets

Fad diets may promise quick weight loss, but they can be harmful to kidney health and may not be sustainable in the long term. It’s important to focus on healthy, balanced eating habits and sustainable weight loss strategies.

Monitor kidney function

Regular monitoring of kidney function is crucial for individuals with kidney disease who are trying to lose weight. It’s important to work with a healthcare professional to ensure that weight loss efforts are not negatively impacting kidney function.

Dietary Recommendations

Making dietary changes is an important aspect of weight loss and kidney health. Incorporating these dietary recommendations into a personalized weight loss plan can help individuals with kidney disease achieve their weight loss goals while also promoting kidney health.

Limit sodium intake

Consuming too much sodium can increase blood pressure and cause fluid retention, which can strain the kidneys. Limit sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day.

Control portion sizes

Eating larger portions than necessary can lead to consuming too many calories, which can contribute to weight gain. Using smaller plates and measuring portions can help control calorie intake and support weight loss.

Choose low-phosphorus foods

Consuming too much phosphorus can be harmful to individuals with kidney disease. Choose low-phosphorus foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to limit phosphorus intake.

Include high-quality protein

Protein is important for maintaining muscle mass and promoting weight loss, but consuming too much protein can strain the kidneys. Choosing high-quality protein sources such as lean meats, fish, eggs, and dairy can help support weight loss and kidney health.

Limit saturated and trans fats

Consuming too much saturated and trans fats can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is a common complication of kidney disease. Choosing healthy fats such as those found in nuts, seeds, and fatty fish can help promote heart and kidney health.

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids can help flush waste products and toxins out of the body, supporting kidney health. Aim to drink at least 8 cups of fluid per day.

Consider a kidney-friendly diet

A kidney-friendly diet, such as the DASH diet or the Mediterranean diet, can provide a balanced and nutritious approach to weight loss and kidney health. These diets focus on whole foods, lean protein sources, healthy fats, and limited sodium and phosphorus intake.

The Impact of Weight Loss on Other Health Conditions Related to Kidney Disease

In addition to promoting kidney health, weight loss can have a positive impact on other health conditions related to kidney disease, including:

Diabetes

Obesity is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, which can lead to kidney damage. Losing weight can help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control, reducing the risk of developing diabetes or managing existing diabetes.

Hypertension

High blood pressure is a common complication of kidney disease and can contribute to further kidney damage. Losing weight can help lower blood pressure and reduce the strain on the kidneys.

Cardiovascular disease

Individuals with kidney disease are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, which is also linked to obesity. Weight loss can improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Sleep apnea

Obesity is a risk factor for sleep apnea, a condition where breathing is interrupted during sleep. Sleep apnea can contribute to further kidney damage and other health complications. Losing weight can help reduce the severity of sleep apnea and improve overall sleep quality.

Joint pain

Excess weight can put a strain on joints, causing pain and inflammation. Losing weight can help reduce joint pain and improve mobility, making it easier to engage in physical activity and maintain a healthy weight.

Time Frame for Seeing the Benefits of Weight Loss on Kidney Health

The time frame for seeing the benefits of weight loss on kidney health can vary depending on the individual and the degree of weight loss achieved. However, research has shown that even modest weight loss can have a positive impact on kidney function and other related health conditions.

Studies have shown that a weight loss of 5-10% of body weight can lead to improvements in kidney function, including a reduction in albuminuria (protein in the urine) and a decrease in blood pressure. These improvements can be seen within several months of starting a weight loss program.

Long-term weight loss maintenance can lead to further improvements in kidney function and a reduction in the risk of kidney disease progression. In addition, weight loss can have a positive impact on other health conditions related to kidney disease, as mentioned in the previous section.

It’s important to note that weight loss should be achieved through safe and sustainable methods, and the time frame for seeing benefits may vary depending on the individual’s starting point and weight loss plan. Working with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized weight loss plan and monitoring kidney function regularly can help track progress and ensure safe and effective weight loss.

Limitations of Weight Loss in Reversing Kidney Damage

While weight loss can have significant benefits for kidney health, it is important to note that it may not be able to completely reverse all types of kidney damage.

For example, in cases of advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), significant kidney damage may have already occurred and weight loss may not be able to fully restore kidney function. However, weight loss can still be beneficial in managing CKD and reducing the risk of further damage.

In addition, weight loss may not be effective in treating other underlying conditions that contribute to kidney damage, such as autoimmune disorders or genetic conditions.

It is also important to note that rapid or extreme weight loss can be harmful to kidney function and overall health, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease. Therefore, any weight loss plan should be developed in consultation with a healthcare professional and should be safe and sustainable.

Overall, while weight loss can have significant benefits for kidney health, it is important to recognize its limitations and approach weight loss as one part of a comprehensive approach to managing kidney disease.

Conclusion

Incorporating weight loss into a comprehensive kidney disease management plan can have significant benefits for both kidney function and overall health. While weight loss may not be able to reverse all types of kidney damage, it can help to manage and slow the progression of kidney disease, as well as reduce the risk of other health complications.

Safe and sustainable weight loss strategies, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, can help to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood pressure, and promote heart health, all of which are important for kidney function.

It is important to work with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized weight loss plan that takes into account any underlying health conditions or medications that may impact weight loss efforts. Regular monitoring of kidney function is also important to track progress and ensure safe and effective weight loss.

In addition to weight loss, other components of a comprehensive kidney disease management plan may include medication management, dietary changes, physical activity, and regular monitoring of kidney function. By taking a multi-faceted approach to kidney disease management, individuals with kidney disease can improve their overall health and quality of life.