Living with Stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease

I am dedicating this posting to all CKD Sufferers specifically those on Stages 3 and 4.  

Living with Stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease: My Journey with Food and Hope

When I first heard the words Stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease, my mind raced. The doctors explained my kidneys were working at less than 30% of normal capacity. Dialysis was on the horizon, but I made the personal decision not to pursue it. Instead, I’ve chosen to live as fully as I can, with dignity, gratitude, and self-care at the center of my days.

One of the biggest tools I’ve found in this journey is diet. What we eat truly matters. For those of us living with advanced kidney disease, the right food choices can ease symptoms, slow further damage, and improve daily life. I’ve experienced this firsthand.

Why Food Matters

Our kidneys act like filters—removing waste and balancing minerals. When they weaken, the “filter” slows down, and things like sodium, potassium, and phosphorus build up in the body. By adjusting what I eat, I’m essentially lightening the load on my kidneys, helping them do the best job they still can.

What I’ve Learned About Eating with CKD

1. Protein in Moderation

Early on, I loved big portions of meat. But with CKD, I’ve learned that less is more. Smaller servings of chicken or fish work better, and I’ve been experimenting with plant-based proteins like tofu. Too much protein makes the kidneys work harder—something I want to avoid.

2. Saying Goodbye to the Salt Shaker

I used to be heavy-handed with salt, especially on comfort foods. Now, I lean on herbs, lemon, and spices. Cutting back on sodium helps keep my blood pressure in check and reduces swelling in my legs and ankles.

3. Potassium Watch

I never thought twice about eating bananas or tomatoes—until my lab results showed high potassium. Now, apples, grapes, and berries are my go-to fruits. Little swaps like these make a big difference.

4. Phosphorus and Bones

I didn’t realize how much phosphorus was hidden in processed foods until my dietitian explained it. Too much can weaken bones and cause itching. So, I’ve cut back on dairy, nuts, and dark colas. Even cream cheese in small amounts feels like a treat.

5. Fluids in Check

Thirst is tricky with CKD. On hot days, I want to gulp water, but I’ve learned the importance of pacing myself. Extra fluid can lead to swelling and shortness of breath. I measure my liquids carefully—even soups and ice cubes count.

6. Protecting My Heart

CKD doesn’t just affect the kidneys—it raises the risk for heart disease. That’s why I use olive oil instead of butter, eat more vegetables (the low-potassium ones), and stay mindful about cholesterol.

Gratitude for the Experts

One thing I’ll emphasize: don’t do this alone. My renal dietitian has been a guide and teacher, adjusting my food plan based on my bloodwork. CKD isn’t one-size-fits-all—what works for me may not work for someone else.

Living with Intention

Stage 4 CKD is a reality I live with every day. I know my future holds challenges, but choosing not to go on dialysis has made me more determined to focus on the present. Each meal I prepare is both nourishment and a small act of self-care.

Food won’t cure kidney disease, but it does give me strength, comfort, and a measure of control. And in this season of life, that feels like a gift worth holding onto.

A Note of Gratitude from My Hospital Stay

Recently, I spent three days at John Muir Hospital in Walnut Creek, and I came away deeply touched by the care I received. The staff—especially the Filipino-American nurses—showed me not only skill but true compassion. Their kindness, gentle humor, and attentiveness reminded me that while CKD can feel like a heavy burden, I’m not carrying it alone. Sometimes healing comes not just from medicine or diet, but from the human connection we find in unexpected places.

As I continue living with Stage 4 CKD, I carry their example with me. Their bedside manner inspired me to keep choosing gratitude, to see each meal as an opportunity for healing, and to face the future with courage.

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A Practical Checklist: Kidney-Friendly Diet for Stage 4 CKD

Here’s a quick guide for anyone navigating food choices with advanced kidney disease:

✅ Control protein: Choose smaller portions; lean meats or plant-based proteins.
✅ Limit sodium: Skip the salt shaker, avoid processed foods.
✅ Watch potassium: Choose apples, grapes, and berries instead of bananas, oranges, or tomatoes.
✅ Manage phosphorus: Cut back on dairy, nuts, and colas; check labels for phosphate additives.
✅ Balance fluids: Count everything that melts or pours—water, soups, ice, even juicy fruits.
✅ Protect your heart: Use healthy fats, eat heart-smart grains and veggies (within limits).
✅ Work with a renal dietitian: Your plan should be tailored to your labs and health goals.

Meanwhile, 3 WINS FOR THE PHILIPPINES!

Jessica Sanchez- America’s Got Talent Season 20

Veejay Floresca- Project Runway Season 21

Kirk Bondad- Mister International 2025

Congratulations!! Truly, Filipino excellence knows no bounds.

Finally, I heard from the Rumors that Jennifer ( our Concierge Guru) has resigned. Her last day was yesterday. As of today, I have not seen any announcement. I know she has been with THD for 8 years. I also heard she resigned for a better position at Hyatts ( salary and benefits). Jennifer has always been very  professional, helpful and excellent in her job, She is well-liked by all of Us. Good Luck in your new Position and God Bless You! We love you, Jennifer.