Did you know that up to 50% of people with lupus develop lupus nephritis? I happen to be one of them.
When I was first diagnosed, I had no idea what was at risk. Yes, I was told my kidneys would be affected, but I never imagined I’d need a kidney transplant. As my kidney function declined, I learned what helps—and what harms—kidney health.
March is Kidney Awareness Month, so let’s talk about how to protect your kidneys and take control of your health!
What is Lupus Nephritis?
Lupus is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system, which normally protects the body from infections, mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. This leads to inflammation, pain, and damage to various organs, including the skin, joints, heart, brain—and, for many of us, the kidneys. (For Lupus 101)
Doctors will often tell you that kidney damage may be irreversible, but I’ve also heard stories of people regaining kidney function, even at Stage IV kidney failure. This wasn’t my experience, so I can’t confirm whether it's possible, but it’s worth researching. Either way, why not try everything in your power to protect your kidneys?
Lupus nephritis occurs when the immune system attacks the kidneys, causing inflammation that can lead to scarring (fibrosis). Over time, excessive scarring reduces kidney function, making it harder for the kidneys to filter waste and excess fluids from the body.
Early Warning Signs: Symptoms to Watch For
Catching lupus nephritis early can make a huge difference. It is the difference between regaining kidney function or a transplant. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Swelling (Edema): One of my first symptoms was my left leg swelling up to twice or even three times its normal size. This was a red flag that something was wrong.
- High Creatinine Levels: Blood tests revealed that my creatinine levels were high, indicating kidney wasn't doing what it was supposed to.
- Proteinuria (Protein in Urine): Instead of filtering protein properly, my kidneys were allowing protein to leak into my urine, which contributed to swelling. This condition is called proteinuria.
- Foamy Urine: If your urine is unusually foamy, it could be a sign of excess protein.
- Fatigue & High Blood Pressure: Kidney issues can make you feel drained and lead to increased blood pressure.
Best and Worst Foods for Kidney Health
Your diet plays a huge role in managing lupus nephritis. While I’m not a doctor, I’ve noticed clear trends in how my kidney function responds to different foods. One thing I learned? The more advanced your kidney disease, the more you need to watch your potassium intake. But if you’re just being proactive, doubling up on greens can be a game-changer!
Kidney-Friendly Foods That Helped Me:
When I consistently ate more green leafy vegetables, my kidney function improved. But when I slacked off, my labs reflected it.
I loved blending 1 cup of cauliflower or broccoli into my smoothies (trust me, you won’t taste it!). If you’re still unsure, start with a smaller amount and work your way up.
The other veggie I ate a lot of? Cabbage! I am the cabbage queen—I sautĂ©ed it with carrots and shrimp (told you, seafood is my weakness!). I also paid special attention to seasonings. Everything was salt-free, and even now, I barely use salt in my food—it just tastes so much better without it.
Foods to Avoid:
If you're in Stage IV or V kidney failure, do yourself a huge favor and stay away from high-potassium foods. They can do more harm than good. Be especially cautious with:
❌ Bananas
❌ Oranges
❌ Potatoes
❌ Spinach (I loved it, but had to cut back due to its high potassium levels)
Pro Tip:
Keeping a food journal was a game-changer for me. It helped me pinpoint which foods helped my kidneys and which triggered issues. Also, when making smoothies, follow the "more veggies than fruit" rule—not only does it keep potassium in check, but it’s also an easy way to get more veggies into your diet. It might take some getting used to, but trust me—your kidneys will thank you!
Lifestyle & Medication Balance:
Managing lupus nephritis requires more than just diet—you also need to balance medications, exercise, and stress management.
- Take Your Medication as Prescribed – This is non-negotiable for keeping inflammation in check.
- Stay Active – If you can, try to walk daily. Adding 2-lb weights can help, but don’t push yourself too hard—do what feels right for your body. You are not in competition with anyone.
Holistic Strategies: Herbs, Hydration & Stress Management
Don't make the same mistake I did—thinking more water is always better. I learned the hard way that overloading on water can actually put extra strain on weak kidneys. And let’s not forget, some herbs that seem "healthy" can be dangerous when you're on immunosuppressants.
- Hydration is Key: Your kidneys need water to flush out toxins, but balance is everything. Start with 64 ounces a day (unless your doctor advises otherwise) and adjust based on your body's needs. More isn’t always better!
- Reduce Stress: I wish I had prioritized stress management earlier because stress is a major lupus trigger. I lived in a constant state of worry, and it only made things worse. Now, I focus on deep breathing, meditation, and even gentle yoga to keep my body and mind in check. Trust me, your kidneys (and overall health) will thank you.
- Consider Herbal Support: Some herbs can support kidney health, but not all of them play nice with lupus medications. Always check with your doctor before adding anything new to your routine—what works for one person may not work for another.
Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with Lupus Nephritis? Share this post with them and drop a đź’ś in the comments if you want me to share kidney-friendly meal ideas, natural remedies, or my personal routine! Let’s spread awareness and take charge of our kidney health together.
Disclaimer:
I am not a medical professional. This post is based on my personal experience and the experiences of others. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle.
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