National Kidney Month
National Kidney Month – March
Have you ever stopped to think about your kidneys and the vital work they do every day?
Last year, I attended a seminar titled “The Kidney: The Forgotten Organ”. It highlighted how important it is to recognise early signs of kidney function decline—and why this matters for your overall health.
“Kidney disease is either a cause, associated with, or contributes to the progression of other health conditions.”
Kidney disease is on the rise. While it is often linked to diabetes and cardiovascular disease, it is also associated with dementia, depression, anaemia, sarcopenia, and even changes that can occur during menopause.
Your gut health and kidney function are closely connected. Chronic kidney disease can disrupt your gut microbiome and gut wall, while gut issues that impair toxin clearance can increase the workload on your kidneys.
Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is classified into 5 stages based on eGFR (glomerular filtration rate):
Stage 1: eGFR > 90
Stage 2: eGFR 60–89
Stage 3a: eGFR 45–59
Stage 3b: eGFR 30–44
Stage 4: eGFR 15–29
Stage 5: eGFR < 15 or on dialysis
Stages 1 and 2 are often linked with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and smoking. By stage 3, other comorbidities are commonly present.
While genetics play a role, much kidney disease can be prevented or slowed through lifestyle choices—similar to managing diabetes and heart health. That’s why it’s important to check your kidney function regularly during your annual tests. Even small changes in your filtration rate are worth noting.
Supporting Kidney Health
You can take steps to protect your kidneys and support long-term health:
Eat a nutrient-rich diet to support optimal organ function.
Exercise regularly to improve lymphatic flow and toxin removal.
Reduce stress to limit inflammation and oxidative damage.
Prioritise sleep to support energy, mood, and overall recovery.
Monitor your toxic load by limiting environmental exposures, which reduces strain on your kidneys.
Watching a loved one navigate kidney disease has shown me how crucial early detection is. My dad wasn’t diagnosed until Stage 3b because it wasn’t highlighted in his appointments. This experience has reinforced how important it is to review your blood tests carefully, track changes over time, and ask questions if something isn’t clear.
Take charge of your health. If you’re unsure about your kidney function or results, speak with a professional who can interpret them for you. Early action can make all the difference.