2025-06-24

Rising Chronic Kidney Disease in Filipino Children: 7 Simple Ways to Protect Your Kid’s Kidney Health at Home

Chronic Kidney Disease in Filipino kids is rising. Learn 7 simple and doable steps to protect your child’s kidney health naturally with home-prepared food and healthy habits.

‼️Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is silently rising among Filipino children—yes, even here in Cebu. Often unnoticed until it’s too late, CKD is now becoming more common due to poor dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and overconsumption of processed foods. But here’s the good news: you can make simple changes at home that significantly reduce your child's risk.
Here are 7 practical and doable ways to protect your kid’s kidney health right from your kitchen and daily routine.
1. Introduce Vegetable and Fruit Purees by 6 Months Old 🥕🍎 As soon as your child is ready for solids—around 6 months—start with natural fruit and vegetable purees. This early exposure builds their taste for whole, nourishing foods instead of sugary, salty snacks later on.
You can start with mashed kalabasa (squash), carrots, bananas, or apples. Skip the instant baby food and go fresh!
2. Prepare Whole Foods, Even On Busy Days 🍲 Busy Cebuanos, we get it—morning rush is real. But whole food preparation doesn’t need to be stressful. Do some weekend meal preps:
- Boil eggs - Marinate your own chicken - Make veggie-chicken nuggets and freeze them - Batch cook rice and gulay dishes
These steps help you avoid relying on canned or instant food options throughout the week.
3. Make Smart Food Swaps 🥪 Cooking methods matter. Instead of deep-frying, try baking or air-frying. Swap frozen fries with fresh kamote (sweet potatoes), carrots, or eggplant slices. Replace hotdogs and processed meats with boiled or grilled chicken strips.
These swaps are not only healthier—they’re also cheaper when sourced locally from your suking tindahan or palengke.
4. More Water, Less Sugary Drinks 🍉 Encourage your kids to drink more water by making it fun. Add lemon, cucumber, or frozen fruits to infuse flavor. Limit powdered juice, iced tea, and soft drinks. These are loaded with sugar that harms both the kidneys and overall health.
Tip: Keep a cute, refillable tumbler nearby to encourage them to drink more water.
5. Limit Processed Snacks and Junk Food 🌽 Instead of chips or candies, give them banana slices, boiled corn, or even homemade vegetable fries. You can make pancakes using oats, banana, and egg—a healthy and filling merienda!
Remember: the more colorful their plate is with natural ingredients, the better.
6. Read Nutrition Labels Like a Pro 🕵️ Avoid foods high in sodium, added sugars, and saturated fats. Learn the nutrition label basics:
5% or less = low in that nutrient 20% or more = high in that nutrient Ingredients are listed in order of quantity (first = highest content)
Keep an eye out for sneaky ingredients like monosodium glutamate (MSG), corn syrup, and “partially hydrogenated oils.”
7. Encourage Physical Activities Daily 🛝 Let your kids play, dance, or ride bikes outside. Even fun TikTok dances or home obstacle courses count! Regular movement improves overall health and supports kidney function by maintaining a healthy weight.
Start with 30 minutes a day and build a routine that includes physical activity as part of daily life.
Final Thoughts ✨ Health and wellness always begins at home—and it begins with you. ✨ Start small. Simple changes in what we feed our children, how we cook, and how they spend their day can make a big difference. Let’s be part of the movement in Cebu (and across the Philippines) that raises healthier, stronger kids free from lifestyle-related diseases like CKD.
Let’s create healthier habits together, one step at a time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I eat for weight loss?

To lose weight, focus on nutrient-dense foods that are high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats while being lower in refined sugars and processed foods. Include plenty of vegetables, lean proteins (like chicken, fish, or legumes), whole grains, and healthy fats (like avocados, nuts, and olive oil). Portion control and regular physical activity are also crucial components of a successful weight loss plan.

How can I reduce my sugar intake?

Start by eliminating sugary beverages such as sodas, sweetened teas, and energy drinks. Choose whole fruits over fruit juices, and consider using natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit instead of refined sugar. Read labels to identify hidden sugars in processed foods, and aim to reduce consumption of packaged snacks, desserts, and processed cereals that often contain added sugars.

Do I need to take supplements?

Supplements are not always necessary if you're getting a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. However, if you have specific deficiencies or health conditions, a healthcare provider may recommend certain supplements (like vitamin D, B12, or omega-3s). Always consult with a professional before adding supplements to your routine, as excess intake can be harmful.

What is a balanced diet?

A balanced diet is one that includes a variety of foods from all the main food groups in the right proportions. It should contain fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats to provide all the essential nutrients your body needs. This approach ensures you maintain good health and energy while minimizing the risk of chronic diseases.

How do I manage food allergies?

Managing food allergies involves identifying and avoiding the allergens that trigger reactions. It's essential to carefully read food labels, be aware of hidden sources of allergens in packaged foods, and communicate with restaurants or food providers about your allergies. Work with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider to develop a safe and balanced meal plan that meets your nutritional needs while avoiding allergens.

Can nutrition help with improving energy levels?

Yes, proper nutrition plays a significant role in boosting your energy levels. Eating balanced meals that include complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats can stabilize your blood sugar, prevent energy crashes, and provide sustained energy throughout the day. Additionally, staying hydrated and including nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, whole grains, and lean proteins can help improve overall vitality.

What are the benefits of eating whole foods?

Whole foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, are nutrient-dense and free from added sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives found in processed foods. They provide a wide range of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health, improve digestion, boost immune function, and promote long-term wellness.

How can I stay on track with my nutrition goals?

Staying on track with your nutrition goals requires consistency and support. Set realistic, measurable goals and break them down into manageable steps. Regularly track your meals and progress, and seek professional guidance from a nutritionist or dietitian when necessary. It's also important to stay motivated by celebrating small wins, finding a supportive community, and making adjustments to your plan as needed.

Is it okay to indulge in treats occasionally?

Yes, occasional indulgences are a natural part of a balanced lifestyle. It's important to enjoy your favorite treats in moderation without feeling guilty. The key is balance—if you focus on eating nutrient-dense, whole foods most of the time, an occasional treat won't derail your overall health goals. Mindful eating and portion control are essential for managing indulgence while maintaining a healthy diet.

How can I improve my gut health with nutrition?

A healthy gut is essential for digestion, immunity, and overall health. To support your gut health, include fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains in your diet. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut can help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Drinking plenty of water and limiting processed foods also contribute to a healthier digestive system.

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