According to ET Today on 18/3, Doctor Chen Man-Tsai, a nephrologist at Da Tian General Hospital in Taiwan, stated that chronic kidney disease is increasing rapidly with the aging population. Globally, the prevalence ranges from 8% to 16%, yet only about 10% of those affected recognize their condition. Doctor Chen emphasized that the decline in kidney function progresses silently, showing almost no symptoms in its early stages. Therefore, people need to proactively undergo regular blood and urine tests instead of waiting for symptoms to appear, to protect this vital biological "filter".

Illustration: OMH

The expert identified ten groups facing the highest risk of chronic kidney failure. This list includes: individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, proteinuria, and gout. Smokers, those with a family history of kidney disease, individuals over 65 years old, or those who regularly use painkillers for extended periods are also in this high-risk group.

Upon receiving a kidney disease diagnosis, many individuals develop a significant fear, even completely abstaining from meat due to an obsession with protein control. Dietitian Chen Yi-San warns that this overly restrictive habit directly leads to muscle loss, malnutrition, and energy deficiency. Conversely, consuming large amounts of protein generates more nitrogenous waste, increasing the excretory burden on the kidneys. Instead of complete elimination, the expert advises patients to select valuable protein sources from fish, eggs, tofu, and lean meat, consuming them in appropriate quantities.

To ensure patients feel full without consuming excess protein, the dietitian suggests replacing white rice with low-protein carbohydrates. These include: vermicelli, rice noodles, lotus root powder, radish cakes, or tapioca flour, which provide ample necessary calories but contain very little protein. This dietary innovation helps patients avoid kidney overload, while also creating room to supplement with other nutrient-rich side dishes.

While chronic kidney failure is irreversible, doctors affirm that early screening combined with precise nutritional intervention will help patients maintain a stable physical condition and enjoy a good quality of life in the long term.

Binh Minh (According to ET Today)