Understanding KDIGO: Your Guide to Better Kidney Care
Your Guide to Understanding Kidney Care Guidelines and Taking Control of CKD
If you live with chronic kidney disease (CKD), you may have heard your doctor mention KDIGO. But what is it, and why does it matter to you?
What is KDIGO?
KDIGO stands for Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes. It’s a group of international experts who create guidelines to help doctors around the world provide the best care for people with kidney disease. Think of it as a scientific roadmap for your kidneys.
Why Guidelines Matter
Guidelines help doctors make decisions based on the latest research. They provide consistent advice on everything from blood pressure goals to diet, medications, and lab tests. Following these guidelines can help slow CKD progression and keep you healthier longer.
How KDIGO Helps You
KDIGO outlines the stages of CKD (from 1 to 5) and explains what treatments and lifestyle changes are recommended at each stage. It also gives guidance on medications, like blood pressure or diabetes medicines, and on nutrition — how much protein or salt is ideal for protecting your kidneys.
Monitoring Your Health
The guidelines emphasize regular lab tests, such as eGFR and albumin levels (ACR), to track kidney function. These tests help your doctor make timely adjustments to your care.
Why Patients Should Care
KDIGO provides the scientific map, but you are in the driver’s seat. By understanding these recommendations, you can work with your healthcare team to make informed choices, from medications to meals, exercise, and lifestyle habits.
MetaSano and KDIGO
MetaSano is based on KDIGO guidelines and is always up to date with the latest information. If you still don’t have the app, download it now at metasano.com
Learn More About KDIGO
You can visit the official KDIGO website at kdigo.org to explore the guidelines yourself and learn more about kidney care.
With care,
Ewerton Lopes - Living with CKD since 2016
CEO of MetaSano
Integrative Nutrition Specialist
Kidney Health Coach
Member of the Quebec Nephrology Society
Gerontologist
Author of the book My Dog, My Healer: My path to overcoming chronic kidney disease
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