Have you ever wondered if your kidneys are by any way associated with your body’s weight? Did you know an increase in weight can have a direct impact on your kidney health and vice versa?

If yes, this blog will simplify certain important aspects and make you more informed.

If not, then this blog might take you by surprise and give you knowledge that you weren’t aware of earlier.

In this blog, Mykare Health will help you identify the causes of weight gain due to an ailing kidney and provide some useful management tips to keep your weight under control.

Before we dive into it, let’s find the link between weight gain and kidney disease.

Kidneys are widely known as the body's filtration system. Together, these two bean-shaped organs eliminate waste, restore vital nutrients and electrolytes in your cells, and regulate the proper balance of bodily fluids.

As a result of genetics, certain medical problems, and traumatic injuries, kidney diseases can occur . However, a number of lifestyle factors such as diabetes or uncontrolled high blood pressure can also potentially promote kidney disease.

You may retain too much fluid in your body or lose too much due to kidney disease. This is but one way that kidney diseases might have an impact on your weight.

Now, it is time to dig deep.

Can Kidney Disease Make You Gain Weight?

• Although weight gain is a possible side effect of kidney disease, this type of weight gain is uncommon.

• The weight gained by individuals with kidney disease is not the same as the weight gained by obesity. Fluid retention is typically the cause of weight gain in individuals with kidney diseases.

• Your kidneys don't eliminate enough fluid from your blood and tissues when they're not functioning properly.

• Because damaged kidneys are unable to convert extra fluid into urine, the fluids accumulate inside your body and have nowhere to go.

• The weight of one liter of water is approximately 2.2 pounds. So, having a few more liters of fluid in your body might rapidly build up to the numbers you see on your scale.

Will Kidney Disease Occur Because Of Obesity?

Kidney disease is not actually directly caused by obesity. Rather, obesity makes other problems worse, which raises the possibility of kidney disease.

The main obesity induced risk factors for kidney disease are:

• Hypertension and diabetes

• Genetic disorders or mutations

• Infections

• Alcoholism or toxin exposure

Although obesity may not directly cause kidney disease, it does play a role in many of the conditions that do, including diabetes and high blood pressure.

An imbalanced diet, inactivity, and some other habits can raise your risk of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Both can increase the risk of kidney disease.

Causes Of Weight Gain Due To Kidney Disease

Kidney disease can cause weight gain due to a variety of factors, often resulting from a weakened kidney function. It is important to understand the causes of weight gain in order to effectively manage it.

Want to know more about them? Here you go:

• Fluid retention (Edema): The kidneys play a critical role in keeping the body's fluid balance in check. When kidney function is impaired, more sodium and water can be stored in the body, which can lead to edema in different parts of the body. This fluid retention can cause weight gain because the excess fluid builds up in the body.

• Altered sodium and water balance: Kidney disease may not be able to regulate sodium levels, leading to an increase in water retention, which can worsen edema and cause weight gain.

• Metabolic changes: Kidney disease can cause changes in hormone levels, which can affect metabolism and lead to weight gain. These changes can include changes in appetite, such as altered taste sensations, restricted food intake, or medication side effects.

• Medication side effects: Some medications that are prescribed to treat kidney disease or related conditions can cause weight gain. For example, certain steroids or immune-suppressants can lead to weight gain as side effects.

• Comorbid conditions: Chronic kidney disease often co-occurs with other health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, etc. These conditions can also cause weight gain.

• Fatigue and muscle wasting: As kidney disease progresses, people may become more fatigued, weak, or have reduced mobility. This can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which can also lead to weight gain.

Weight Management Techniques

Here are some useful hacks of kidney disease induced weight management.

• Sodium restriction: Reduce salt intake to reduce fluid retention. Avoid processed foods, canned foods, and restaurant meals. Replace salt with herbs, spices, or other flavorings instead.

• Control of fluid intake: Monitor and limit fluid intake, especially for those with fluid retention. Work with your dietitian to determine individual fluid restrictions based on your needs and kidney function.

• Protein moderation: Adjust your protein intake based on your stage of kidney disease. This helps prevent excessive protein breakdown and reduces strain on your kidneys. Consume high-quality proteins such as eggs, fish, lean meats, and lean protein in controlled portions.

• Balanced nutrition: Consume a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as well as healthy fats.

• Potassium and phosphorus intake: Monitor your potassium and phosphorus intake to control weight gain.

• Medication adjustments: Healthcare providers may prescribe diuretics for increased urine output and effective management of fluid retention.

• Management of comorbid conditions: Medications may be prescribed for conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

• Physical Activity: Burning extra calories and enhancing your overall health can help you with weight management. It is crucial to discuss appropriate exercise routines with healthcare professionals.

• Monitoring Fluid Intake and Output: Maintaining appropriate fluid balance can be easier by closely monitoring fluid intake and output. Additionally, regular weight monitoring can give important information on fluid retention.

• Medical therapies: Dialysis and other therapies may be required in severe cases to control fluid accumulation and preserve electrolyte balance.

• Behavioural Changes: Promoting lifestyle modifications including portion control, mindful eating, and switching to a balanced diet can help with weight gain management. Consulting a dietitian, psychologist can be helpful.

• Regular Consultations: Consistent visits to healthcare providers, including nephrologists, dietitians, and other specialists, are crucial for monitoring progress, making necessary adjustments, and ensuring the management plan is on track.

A comprehensive approach that considers dietary changes, medication adjustments, physical activity, and medical interventions is needed to manage weight gain in kidney disease.

The care strategy for each patient should be customised to their unique situation, stage of kidney disease and overall health condition.

Working together with medical professionals is essential in developing a tailored and successful plan for reducing weight gain and enhancing general health in people with renal disease.