At MRIKPA, we know that many of our members carefully manage their diets to support their kidney health. But what happens when fasting is part of your lifestyle—whether for religious, medical, or personal reasons? A new call from experts highlights the urgent need for clearer guidance on fasting for people with kidney disease.
A recent article published by Yahoo News (read it here) highlights concerns from kidney specialists, who warn that fasting without proper medical advice could put some patients at serious risk.
Why Is Fasting a Concern for Kidney Patients?
Fasting—whether for Ramadan, intermittent fasting, or medical procedures—can be a challenge for people with kidney conditions. Depending on the stage of kidney disease and whether you are on dialysis, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can have serious consequences. Experts are now urging healthcare providers to give clearer, more tailored advice to kidney patients, so they can fast safely or know when they should avoid it.
The lack of specific fasting guidance means that many patients make their own decisions without the full picture of how it might affect their health. While some can fast safely with the right precautions, others—particularly those with advanced kidney disease or those on dialysis—may face complications such as dehydration, low blood pressure, and worsening kidney function.
What Should Kidney Patients Do?
We strongly encourage our members to speak with their kidney care team before undertaking any fasting. Everyone’s condition is different, and what works for one person might not be safe for another. Some general points to consider:
• Consult Your Doctor: Always get professional medical advice before fasting, especially if you have kidney disease.
• Stay Hydrated: If you are fasting, make sure to drink plenty of fluids during non-fasting hours.
• Monitor Symptoms: Watch for dizziness, fatigue, or signs of dehydration, and stop fasting if you feel unwell.
• Follow Medical Guidance: Some people with kidney disease may be advised not to fast at all. If that applies to you, it’s important to follow that advice to protect your health.
As an association run by kidney patients for kidney patients, we welcome the call for clearer fasting guidelines. It’s essential that patients have access to accurate, personalised advice to make informed decisions.
If you have concerns about fasting and kidney disease, speak to your healthcare team and check trusted sources such as the NHS or Kidney Care UK for the latest guidance.
Stay well, stay informed, and take care.
– The MRIKPA Team
