In 2025, the FDA approved several new medications for kidney disease that target specific causes of kidney damage and may help slow disease progression and protect kidney function. Not every medicine is right for every type of kidney disease, but these approvals offer new hope for many patients. Speak with your healthcare provider to learn if any are right for you. Ozempic for Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease Ozempic (semaglutide) was first approved to treat type 2

Start the year off right with flavorful, kidney-friendly recipes that make healthy eating easy. Cook alongside Registered Dietitian Melanie Betz and discover new favorites for 2026. 3 Kidney-Friendly Recipes with Video Demonstrations A new year means new opportunities to nourish your body and feel your best. Whether you’re planning a cozy meal at home or looking for healthy inspiration, these three recipes—guided by Registered Dietitian Melanie Betz—bring delicious flavor and

Caring for your mind is just as important as caring for your kidneys. Learn why mental health matters in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and free science-backed strategies you can start today. Taking Care of Your Mind and Kidneys Living with CKD affects more than your body. It can impact your emotions, relationships, and overall sense of well-being. This study found that about 1 in 5 people on dialysis and 1 in 4 people with a transplant experience depression. According to self

ACCESS is a new 10-year national model developed by the CMS Innovation Center set to launch on July 1, 2026. It is designed for Medicare beneficiaries living with chronic conditions like CKD, especially those who benefit from regular check-ins, early treatment, and coordinated care. A New Support Model for Medicare Patients National Kidney Foundation (NKF) staff attended “Modernizing America’s Care for Better Health,” a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) event hel

In 2025, the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) achieved major advocacy wins that strengthened transplant reform, expanded living donor protection, defended federal funding, and advanced patient-centered kidney care. These accomplishments were made possible by dedicated advocates, patients, and nationwide partners. Standing Up for the 37 Million Americans With Kidney Disease In 2025, the NKF remained committed to advocating for people with kidney disease—despite policy uncertai

The Department of Health and Human Services announced new rules to make the kidney transplant waitlist and organ offers more transparent. NKF explains why this matters and shares a patient’s story about waiting for a kidney. Key Changes to the IOTA Model for Kidney Transplants On December 9, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced updates to the Increasing Transplant Access (IOTA) Model. This model tests new ways to increase the number of kidney transplant

Enjoy your favorite holiday flavors with a kidney-friendly twist. This menu keeps traditions alive, from low-sodium Rice Pasteles to protein-rich Mujadara and a silky, spiced crème for dessert.  Breakfast: Banana Berry Pancakes Start your holiday morning off with a stack of sweet, fruit-filled pancakes the whole family will enjoy. Serving size:  2 pancakes Ingredients 1 large banana, peeled and sliced 1 cup complete pancake mix ½ cup water Nonstick cooking spray 1-½ cups froz

If you have kidney disease and need dialysis, you might be wondering if home dialysis is right for you. Whether you’re thinking about switching from in-center dialysis or just exploring your options, this Home Dialysis FAQ answers the most common questions patients and families ask. 1. Am I a good candidate for home dialysis? Most people with kidney failure can do dialysis at home with proper training and support.  You may be a good candidate for home dialysis if: You’re will

Running out of time to find the perfect gift? Don't worry! Here are 30 chronic kidney disease (CKD)-friendly ideas that are easy to find, simple to assemble, or easy to make at home.  Gifts for Food Lovers Cooking and snacking can still be enjoyable, even with kidney diet restrictions. These food-related gifts make healthy eating easier and more delicious. Air Fryer:  This kitchen gadget makes it easy to enjoy crispy vegetables and lean proteins without heavy oils or frying.

Vaccines save lives, especially for people with CKD. Learn the facts, debunk common myths, and get trusted guidance from NKF. The Truth Behind Vaccine Safety According to a 2024 World Health Organization study, vaccines have saved more than 154 million lives worldwide from over 20 life-threatening diseases in the last 50 years.  Despite this, many myths currently surround vaccines and their safety.  NKF is here to cut through the noise by sharing the facts and explaining why

The National Kidney Foundation is urging the FDA to require phosphorus and added phosphorus amounts on Nutrition Facts labels. This change would help people with kidney disease and millions of others make more informed food choices and protect their health. Why NKF Is Calling for Phosphorus Labeling on Food Packages Making healthy food choices shouldn’t require decoding chemistry terms or guessing what ingredients are in your groceries, but that is exactly what millions of Am

Why Celebrity Kidney Stories Matter More than 1 in 7 adults in the U.S. live with kidney disease, and 1 in 3 are at risk. Yet most people don’t know it. That’s why celebrity voices matter. By sharing their kidney journeys, public figures help shine a light on an often-hidden disease. This inspires more people to get tested, take action, and support kidney donation. Jesse Eisenberg In November 2025, actor and writer Jesse Eisenberg announced he’s donating a kidney to a strange

The government reopened, but big changes are coming for kidney patients in 2026. See what’s at risk and what you can do next. Shut Down Ends After 41 days of a government shutdown, the Senate passed legislation to fund the government and reopen it on Monday, November 10. The House passed the bill, and President Trump signed it into law on Wednesday, November 12.    While this brings relief, kidney patients need to understand what's included—and what's missing—as it could dra

Enjoy four cozy, kidney-friendly winter recipes—from hearty meatloaf to creamy soups and pasta—full of flavor, warmth, and easy comfort. Winter is the perfect time to enjoy cozy kidney-disease meals that taste great. These recipes are full of flavor and easy to make. From hearty dinners to comforting soups, there’s something for everyone this season. 1. Stuffed Pumpkin Meatloaf Pumpkin isn't just for pies and desserts. This stuffed pumpkin meatloaf, packed with spinach, chick

Critical health insurance changes are coming that could significantly impact your healthcare costs. Here's how to navigate them. Open enrollment for Affordable Care Act (ACA, or “Obamacare”) health insurance begins November 1, 2025, and runs through January 15, 2026. For kidney patients who rely on consistent, comprehensive healthcare coverage, this enrollment period brings both opportunities and challenges that require immediate attention. Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Are

Stay active and strong with these simple, low-impact exercises you can do seated or with resistance bands. Perfect for anyone on dialysis, post-transplant, or just starting their chronic kidney disease (CKD) fitness journey.  Benefits of Exercise for People with CKD If you have kidney disease, staying active can help you: Build muscle and maintain flexibility Improve heart health and energy Boost mood and reduce stress Pairing regular exercise with a kidney-friendly diet can

Donating a kidney is one of the most generous gifts a person can give. For people with kidney failure, a transplant from a living donor often leads to better outcomes and a longer, healthier life compared to dialysis. But not everyone who wants to donate is eligible. Here are five common reasons you might not be able to donate a kidney. 1. Serious Medical Conditions Your health is the top priority when it comes to living donation. Medical conditions that could harm you during

As of October 1, 2025, the federal government has entered a shutdown after Congress failed to pass an agreement to fund government operations for the new fiscal year. If you're living with kidney disease or receiving dialysis treatments, you're probably wondering how this affects your care. Here's what you need to know. The Good News: Your Core Benefits Continue Your dialysis treatments and Medicare and Medicaid coverage will NOT be interrupted. This is the most important th

Medicare Open Enrollment begins October 15 and runs through December 7 each year. This is your chance to review, compare, and make changes to your Medicare health or prescription drug coverage for the upcoming year. If you’re living with kidney disease, on dialysis, or have a kidney transplant, it’s especially important to review your plan—coverage options, networks, and out-of-pocket costs can change yearly. The plan that worked for you last year might not be the best for t

Plant-based eating is a great way to support kidney health, and fall is the perfect season to try it out. From cozy bowls to sweet spiced...