The kidneys play an essential part in keeping us all healthy by filtering waste products out of our blood through urine production and expulsion, and helping regulate blood pressure, produce red blood cells and strengthen bones for overall wellness. But what is the relation between phosphorous and your kidney?

Importance of Managing Blood Phosphorus Levels with CKD

@kidneyhealthmd Phosphorus, a mineral found in many foods, plays a vital role in bone health and energy production. However, for those with chronic kidney disease, managing phosphorus intake becomes crucial. I understand the importance of a balanced and healthy diet. That’s why I offer a variety of options for those with dietary restrictions, including low phosphorus options. Work with a kidney specialist today to determine an appropriate phosphorus intake for your individual needs. Contact now and visit my website! https://www.drbismah.com #KidneyHealthAwareness #MedicationRisks #PrescriptionCautions #WellnessEducation #KidneyWellbeing #MedicationSafety #HealthKnowledge #EmpowerYourHealth ♬ original sound – Kidney and Holistic MD

Phosphorus stands out amongst all of the minerals the kidneys regulate as one essential nutrient that aids bone and teeth strength, along with various bodily processes. Phosphorus can be found in many foods and is essential to strong bones and teeth as well as body functions; but for people living with chronic kidney disease, managing blood phosphorus levels becomes even more crucial; increased levels can result in severe health consequences including 

• weak bones
• an increased fracture risk
• ectopic calcification (calcium deposits in soft tissues around soft tissues throughout the body) 
• cardiovascular disease

Kidney Function and Phosphorus Regulation

The kidneys are essential in keeping phosphorus levels within our bloodstream stable and balanced. When our diet contains too much phosphorus, they rid themselves of it through urine; but as kidney function declines they become less effective at filtering phosphorus out of our system resulting in hyperphosphatemia or increased levels of blood phosphorus.

Recognising Signs and Symptoms of High Blood Phosphorus Level

Initially, increased blood phosphorus levels may not present obvious symptoms; however, as levels rise individuals may begin to experience 

• Itching
• Bone and joint pain
• Fatigue 
• Reddening of their eyes

 – signs that would warrant seeing a physician for blood phosphorus level evaluation. It’s especially crucial if suffering from chronic kidney disease. 

High blood phosphorus levels can be diagnosed through a simple blood test which measures their presence in your body’s circulation system. If these levels become excessively high, your physician can work with you to develop an action plan to lower them and eventually treat the problem effectively.

Read more: How to boost kidney function?

Treatment Options for High Blood Phosphorus Levels

There are various strategies available for controlling elevated levels of phosphorus, including:

Dietary Adjustments 

One way of limiting one’s phosphorus intake is through diet changes. Consulting a registered dietitian and formulating an eating plan which limits consumption of high phosphorus-content foods like dairy products, meat, poultry, fish nuts seeds or processed food may prove invaluable in doing this effectively.

Medication

Phosphate binders are prescribed medicines designed to bind with phosphorus in your digestive tract and block its absorption into your bloodstream, often taken along with meals. 

Dialysis 

Dialysis may be required in cases of advanced kidney diseases to eliminate excess phosphorus from your blood and aid with healing.

Enhancing Kidney Function:

Although chronic kidney disease cannot be reversed, steps can be taken to slow its progress and enhance overall kidney health by strengthening kidney function – something which holistic advanced kidney care centres strive for. Such steps include:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases the risk of kidney disease; to lower it, be active or diet your weight through dieting or exercising regularly. 
• Adopt a Balanced Diet: Reducing sodium, protein and phosphorus consumption will ease the strain on the kidneys.
• Controlling Blood Sugar: High blood sugar levels have long been recognized to cause damage to kidneys. To preserve their well-being and reduce any possible kidney complications, blood sugar must always remain under control. 
• Exercise regularly: Exercising regularly has been shown to significantly lower blood pressure while simultaneously keeping you well hydrated!
• Avoid smoking: Smoking narrows blood vessels and restricts circulation around your kidneys.

Final Thoughts 

Phosphorus is an essential nutrient, but managing its levels in your bloodstream is especially vital if you suffer from chronic kidney disease to avoid serious health consequences. If this describes you, consult a registered dietitian or physician like Dr. Bismah in developing an action plan for managing phosphorus consumption; maintaining an overall healthier lifestyle while taking prescribed medication could slow the progression of kidney disease while simultaneously improving overall well-being!