New Year, New You: 5 Resolutions to Improve Kidney Health

Happy New Year from the team at Deon D. Middlebrook, MDPC! January always brings a sense of renewal, especially when you’re focused on taking better care of your health. 

Your kidneys work hard behind the scenes to filter waste, balance fluids, and help control your blood pressure. If you’re living with kidney disease, even small changes can make a meaningful difference in how you feel day to day.

This year, consider these five kidney-friendly resolutions to support your health and stay ahead of new symptoms. You don’t have to make every change right away. Even one or two new habits can make a meaningful difference in how you feel.

1. Stay hydrated — smartly and consistently

Dehydration can strain your kidneys, increase fatigue, and make symptoms harder to manage. But drinking too much fluid when you have kidney disease can also cause swelling or shortness of breath. 

That’s why “smart hydration” means following the fluid goals your provider gives you, not just drinking at random.

Spread your fluids throughout the day instead of drinking large amounts at once. If plain water doesn’t appeal to you, add a splash of lemon or try room-temperature fluids, which you may find easier to sip. 

Consistency is key, and this small habit can support your kidneys throughout the year.

2. Lower your sodium intake

Salt sneaks into more foods than most people realize, especially restaurant meals, canned goods, and packaged snacks. Too much sodium can raise your blood pressure and cause extra fluid retention — both of which make kidney disease symptoms worse.

Start with simple changes like choosing fresh ingredients when possible, seasoning meals with herbs instead of salt, and checking labels for sodium content. You don’t need to overhaul your diet overnight. Even gradual reductions can help you feel less bloated and better in control of your blood pressure.

3. Take medications exactly as prescribed

Managing kidney disease often means taking medications that support blood pressure, fluid balance, and overall kidney function. Skipping doses, doubling up, or changing your routine without guidance can quickly affect how you feel.

Make it a resolution to take your medications consistently and to speak up if something feels off. If side effects bother you or you’re unsure how a medication fits into your plan, let us know. Adjusting medications safely is part of your care, and your input matters.

4. Avoid over-the-counter products that can harm your kidneys

Many people don’t realize that everyday medications, especially NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen, can worsen kidney function. Some supplements and herbal products can also interfere with lab results or blood pressure medications.

This year, check with our kidney care team before adding any new over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or supplements. 

When in doubt, ask. Protecting your kidneys sometimes comes down to avoiding products that seem harmless but aren’t kidney-friendly.

5. Keep up with your appointments and lab work

Regular kidney care is one of the most powerful things you can do to stay healthy. If you want help building a kidney-friendly plan for the year ahead, our team at Deon D. Middlebrook, MDPC is here to support you. 

Your lab results give early clues about changes in potassium, sodium, creatinine, or fluid balance long before you feel symptoms. That means missed appointments can delay important adjustments to your treatment.

Make it a resolution to stay connected with your care team. Keep your follow-up visits, complete labs on time, and call if something feels different than usual. 

Your provider can help you manage symptoms, prevent complications, and adjust your plan so you can feel your best throughout the year.

Schedule an appointment today to review your goals, update your care plan, and take the next step toward better kidney health in the new year.