Special KDIGO Defy Dialysis Edition 1/3

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Hello there! 

I’ve been getting some questions this week about healthy fats, and one in particular stood out:

Here’s my take: 

Let’s break it down:

Good Fats:

1. Olive Oil – Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, great for reducing inflammation.

2. Avocados – High in monounsaturated fats and fiber, they support heart health and reduce bad cholesterol.

3. Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts, etc.) – Rich in omega-3s and antioxidants, they help lower cholesterol.

4. Chia Seeds – Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, they promote heart and kidney health.

5. Flaxseeds – High in omega-3s and lignans, offering anti-inflammatory benefits.

6. Salmon – A fatty fish rich in omega-3s, great for reducing inflammation and improving heart health.

7. Sunflower Seeds – Full of polyunsaturated fats and vitamin E, which help fight inflammation.

These fats help reduce inflammation and support your heart—both things that are crucial when you’re managing chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Bad Fats:

1. Butter – High in saturated fats, which can raise bad cholesterol and worsen CKD complications.

2. Processed Meats (Sausage, Bacon, etc.) – Loaded with saturated fats and sodium, harmful for heart and kidney health.

3. Lard – Contains high levels of saturated fats, leading to increased cholesterol and inflammation.

4. Margarine (with Trans Fats) – Full of trans fats that can raise bad cholesterol and lower good cholesterol.

5. Fried Foods – Often cooked in oils high in trans and saturated fats, which can contribute to heart disease.

6. Pastries and Baked Goods – These are typically high in trans fats and sugars, both of which are harmful for your kidneys and heart.

7. Cream and Full-fat Dairy – Packed with saturated fats, which can worsen kidney function and raise blood pressure.

Saturated and trans fats (the kinds found in processed foods and fatty meats) can increase inflammation and raise bad cholesterol levels, making CKD worse and upping your risk of heart disease.

It’s not about eliminating fat altogether; it’s about choosing the right kinds. Making small changes, like swapping butter for olive oil or snacking on almonds instead of chips, can make a big difference.

All this brings me back to something that might help: our simple guide on foods to eat and avoid. It’s designed specifically for CKD patients, so you don’t have to guess what’s good or bad for your kidneys. You can find it here.

Your kidneys and heart will thank you for making better choices—starting with the right fats.

Take a look at the list and start making swaps today.

Here’s the 3 recipes for this special edition:

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