Chronic kidney disease strikes people of all different ages, shapes and sizes. That being said, there are certain factors to consider regarding weight and its connection to kidney disease. As with numerous other health conditions, being excessively overweight or obese can greatly increase your risk of developing potentially life-threatening symptoms, so it’s definitely in your own self-interest to keep your weight at a manageable level for your height.

Additionally, being overweight also significantly increases your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and stroke. Many of these conditions add an even greater risk factor to developing chronic kidney disease at some point. So what can you do differently in your diet to limit your chances of developing full-blown kidney disease? Here are some easy tips anyone can benefit from.

Try Alternate Cooking Methods: Instead of deep-frying, try grilling, roasting, baking and broiling. In your meal prep, be sure to avoid large amounts of oil and butter in prepping your pans and use a non-stick cooking spray instead. Seasonings should be less fat/sodium based and more natural, like herbs, spices, lemon juice, vinegars, etc.

Never Skip A Meal: This just leads to binges later on. It also causes your blood sugar levels to become unbalanced, which is a definite no-no if you have diabetes or are at risk of developing diabetes.

Exercise Portion Control: If you’re eating at home, follow the half-plate rule and make sure at least half of your plat is comprised of some kind of vegetable or fruit dish (no, pies don’t count!) If you’re dining out, either ask the server to pack half of your meal ahead of time or share with your dining companion. This can help prevent you from overeating.

Exchange Fatty For Fresh: Eliminate fatty snacks like chips and candies and try implementing more of your favorite fruit or vegetable. Find them boring or bland? Add spices like cinnamon with a drizzle of honey. Freeze some blueberries and pop them like bonbons. Make some homemade kale chips or opt for any of the commercially-available fruit/veggie chips (make sure they’re reduced sodium!) Every substitution is a step in the right direction.

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