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CKD Restriction Numbers

Your CKD Numbers

June 19, 20242 min read

When I say your numbers, I am referring to your nutrient restriction numbers that you would get from a renal dietician.

The tests often done look at:

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): This test measures how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. A GFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m² for three months or more indicates kidney damage.

Creatinine Blood Test: Creatinine is a waste product that comes from the normal breakdown of muscle tissue. The creatinine level in your blood is used to estimate your GFR.

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Test: The BUN test measures the amount of urea nitrogen in your blood. Elevated levels can indicate kidney damage or other health issues.

Urinalysis: This test examines a sample of your urine for protein, blood, and other substances. Presence of protein or blood may indicate kidney damage.

Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR): This test measures the amount of albumin (a type of protein) in your urine in relation to creatinine. Elevated levels may indicate kidney damage.

Potassium: Healthy kidneys maintain the right amount of potassium in the body. However, in CKD, the kidneys may not be able to remove excess potassium efficiently, leading to high levels in the blood (hyperkalemia). High potassium levels can be dangerous and may affect the heart rhythm.

Phosphorus: Healthy kidneys help regulate phosphorus levels in the body by excreting excess phosphorus through urine. In CKD, the kidneys may not be able to remove phosphorus efficiently, leading to high levels in the blood (hyperphosphatemia). High phosphorus levels can weaken bones and damage blood vessels.

Sodium: Sodium levels are important to monitor because too much sodium can lead to fluid retention and high blood pressure, which can worsen kidney function. In CKD, sodium levels are typically controlled through diet and medication.

It is important to note that eGFR numbers can fluctuate, and when there is a significant change, like moving stages, it's necessary to look at your diet to see where adjustments must be made. Additionally, it is advisable to double-check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if any medications you are taking can affect your kidney function.

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