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@maggieo

I have had stage 4 kidney disease since 2009 (caused ischemic bowel, also lost my large intestine at same time.) I have managed to stay off dialysis and stay very functional with very careful diet control (mainly less salt, changing from Meat based protein to at least 50% plant based protein, getting off of several prescription medications that I didn't need, avoiding all food products with added phosphate in any form, monitoring blood pressure carefully, and having a great nephrologist. Energy level is not what it was, (luckily I am retired) but I have managed to stay off dialysis, travel, findjoy, and have a good life. Takes lots of work, but can be done.

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Replies to "I have had stage 4 kidney disease since 2009 (caused ischemic bowel, also lost my large..."

I'm also 4th stage, GFR 27. I asked for a cystatin test to compare to the creatinine test this month. I'll see how they compare at the end of April. I think of the loss of kidney function as being aware of how much work I expect them to do. The more they have to clean, the harder it is. I intermittently fast almost daily. So I eat in an 8-hour window and let my digestive system rest for 16 hours. I'm not sure if fasting helps but I feel better, and have more energy. I've heard stories of people with 4th stage kidney disease living many years without dialysis. I'm monitored every 3 months and like my new nephrologist.