According to the National Kidney Foundation, kidney disease affects 26 million Americans, while millions of others are at risk for the disease.
Proper diet, regular exercise, medication, and frequent checkups can help slow chronic diseases and improve quality of life. However, many patients do not follow their doctor’s recommendations on the proper steps to manage their disease after they have been diagnosed.
Studies have shown that these small changes, like walking more frequently and eating better, can help slow the progression of chronic kidney disease. It is the patient’s choice whether or not to act upon these recommendations, which can help preserve quality of life.
The dietary and lifestyle choices people make earlier in life can also affect their risk of getting chronic disease at all. By exercising regularly, limiting protein, minimizing sodium intake, and reducing alcohol consumption people can significantly improve their chances of avoiding kidney disease altogether.
