Kidney Nutrition Nuggets

Ep 16 - The Truth About Weight Loss and Kidney Health

In this episode of Kidney Nutrition Nuggets, Summer shares her conversation from the Kidney Confidence Today Summit — one that quickly became a fan favorite among participants. Joined by fellow renal dietitian Michelle McMurtry, she dives into one of the most misunderstood topics in kidney care: weight loss. If you’ve ever been told to “just lose weight” for your kidney health, without any guidance on how, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you’ve been missing. 🎧 Tune in to learn: Why weight loss messages in CKD can be misleading — and even harmful The difference between intentional and restrictive weight loss How to focus on kidney-protective nutrition instead of diet culture 👉 Ready to learn more? Join Summer’s free masterclass: “Weight Loss for CKD: 5 Mistakes You’re Making and How to Fix Them” by clicking HERE [https://www.thekidneynutritioncoach.com/the-truth-about-weight-loss-and-kidney-health]!

Ep. 15 - The (Bad?) Banana

Is the banana really that bad? You’ve probably heard that it’s full of sugar, spikes blood sugar, or should be avoided if you have CKD or diabetes. In this short and sweet episode, I’m busting the most ridiculous myths about bananas and explaining why this fruit deserves a place on your plate.    In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Why bananas have been unfairly labeled as “bad” ✅ The truth about sugar and blood sugar spikes ✅ How bananas fit into a kidney-friendly or diabetes-friendly eating pattern ✅ One key mindset shift to ditch food fear and reclaim confidence in your choices   🔗 Resources & Links: * Instagram: @kidney_nutrition_coach * Website: www.thekidneynutritioncoach.com [http://www.thekidneynutritioncoach.com] * Free Guide: The Ultimate Guide to Plant-Based Proteins for CKD [https://summer-van-arsdale.mykajabi.com/opt-in]

Ep. 14 - Intuitive Eating Meets CKD Nutrition

In this episode, we dive into the concept of intuitive eating and how it can work alongside the dietary needs of chronic kidney disease (CKD). If you've ever found yourself stuck in an "all or nothing" mindset when it comes to your eating patterns, this episode is for you. Managing CKD often comes with numerous food recommendations, which can lead to feelings of guilt, stress, and frustration. However, intuitive eating offers a way to break free from the cycle of perfectionism and allows you to honor your body’s cues while still making mindful food choices. My guest, Amanda Hayes, MS, RD, is an expert in helping people with CKD develop a healthy, balanced relationship with food. In this episode, Amanda explains how to integrate the principles of intuitive eating with the realities of CKD management. She shares practical tips for navigating food choices with a more flexible, compassionate approach. Key Takeaways: * How the "all or nothing" mindset can lead to guilt and frustration when managing CKD diet restrictions * The principles of intuitive eating and how they can support a healthy relationship with food * Practical strategies for balancing kidney-friendly nutrition with listening to your body's hunger and fullness cues * Why it’s important to shift away from restrictive thinking and embrace a more sustainable, enjoyable approach to eating * How to find peace with food while managing chronic kidney disease Stay Connected: Visit www.thekidneynutritioncoach.com [http://www.thekidneynutritioncoach.com] for more information on kidney-friendly nutrition and resources to support your health journey. Grab my freebie, The Ultimate Guide to Plant-based Proteins for CKD [https://summer-van-arsdale.mykajabi.com/opt-in], to get started on your journey to better kidney health.

Ep. 13 - Your CKD Travel Nutrition Blueprint

Traveling with chronic kidney disease can feel overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Kidney Nutrition Nuggets, I break down how to feel confident and prepared whether you’re headed out for a long road trip or a relaxing vacation. You’ll learn how to plan ahead for both travel days (those long, hectic hours on the go) and vacation days (where routine is more flexible). From smart snack ideas to medication reminders, hydration tips to mindset shifts—this episode will help you protect your kidney health while still enjoying your time away. Because yes, it is possible to take a break without setting your progress back. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: The difference between planning for travel days vs vacation days   CKD-friendly snacks to pack for road trips & airports   Tips to prevent constipation during travel   Medication reminders and what to bring in your carry-on   How to keep a flexible, empowered mindset when things don’t go as planned RESOURCES & LINKS: * Kidney-Friendly Freezer Guide [https://www.thekidneynutritioncoach.com/offers/L52AYTqT/checkout]: remember to stock up your freezer with low-sodium, kidney-friendly meals to set you up for mealtime ease when returning from your vacation!

Ep. 12 - Fire Up that Grill! Kidney-Friendly Summertime Cooking

Summer is here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill! But living with chronic kidney disease might have you thinking, "What can I grill?'"  In this episode, I'm turning up the heat on smart grilling strategies so you can enjoy delicious, satisfying meals while staying on track with your kidney health goals.  🎧 Tune in and learn how to: ✔️ Build satisfying summer meals without relying on processed meats ✔️ Use spices, herbs, and acid-based marinades to enhance flavor ✔️ Add variety and color to your plate with seasonal produce ✔️ Make summer eating feel simple, delicious, and aligned with your goals Resources Mentioned: Free Ultimate Guide to Plant-based Protein for CKD [https://summer-van-arsdale.mykajabi.com/opt-in] – Exactly what you need to start your journey with implementing a plant-based diet to preserve kidney health!