Obesity and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
The CKD-Obesity Connection
Obesity is a risk factor for CKD and can speed up its progression.
CKD can make weight gain more likely.
+ Learn More
+ Learn More
Reaching a healthy weight in a safe way can help protect your kidneys and improve your overall health and wellbeing.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
The main measure of obesity is BMI, which compares weight to height. It is an imperfect measure since it does not show body fat or where it’s stored. So, it should be viewed in the context of your overall health.
Description
BMI Category
Under 18.5
18.5 - 24.9
25 - 29.9
30 - 34.9
35 - 39.9
40 or more
Underweight
Healthy Weight
Overweight
Class 1 Obesity
Class 2 Obesity
Class 3 Obesity
Where to Start
Not all weight loss is healthy, and managing weight is more than watching the scale. These tips can be a guide to a healthier weight.
Track Your Habits
Set Specific and Realistic Goals
Know Your "Why"
Problem Solve
Monitor Your Progress
Find Support
Treatment Options and Approaches
It often takes many strategies and hard work to be successful. Things like health problems, stress, genes, hormones, your environment, medicines, and age can make weight loss harder. Work with your care team to create a plan that's right for you.
Supported by
References
Download PDF
This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for the medical advice of a healthcare professional.
Return to Main page
Description
BMI Category
Under 18.5
18.5 - 24.9
25 - 29.9
30 - 34.9
35 - 39.9
40 or more
Underweight
Healthy Weight
Overweight
Class 1 Obesity
Class 2 Obesity
Class 3 Obesity
Return to Main page
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Steps for losing weight. January 17, 2025. Accessed September 2, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-weight-growth/losing-weight/index.html
- National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Choosing a safe & successful weight-loss program. February 2024. Accessed September 2, 2025. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/choosing-a-safe-successful-weight-loss-program
- National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Prescription medications to treat overweight and obesity. June 2024. Accessed September 2, 2025. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/prescription-medications-treat-overweight-obesity
- National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Staying active at any size. July 2016. Accessed September 2, 2025. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/staying-active-at-any-size
Return to Main page
CKD can:
- Make it harder to get rid of extra fluid (water) and natural waste products
- Slow down your metabolism and energy
- Cause swelling all over your body
Obesity can:
- Cause inflammation (swelling) in the tiny filters in your kidneys
- Make your kidneys work extra hard (also called "hyperfiltration")
- Lead to albuminura (protein in the urine), a sign of kidney damage
- Raise your risk for diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease (other risk factors for CKD)
Patient - Obesity Infographic
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Transcript
Obesity and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
The CKD-Obesity Connection
Obesity is a risk factor for CKD and can speed up its progression.
CKD can make weight gain more likely.
+ Learn More
+ Learn More
Reaching a healthy weight in a safe way can help protect your kidneys and improve your overall health and wellbeing.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
The main measure of obesity is BMI, which compares weight to height. It is an imperfect measure since it does not show body fat or where it’s stored. So, it should be viewed in the context of your overall health.
Description
BMI Category
Under 18.5
18.5 - 24.9
25 - 29.9
30 - 34.9
35 - 39.9
40 or more
Underweight
Healthy Weight
Overweight
Class 1 Obesity
Class 2 Obesity
Class 3 Obesity
Where to Start
Not all weight loss is healthy, and managing weight is more than watching the scale. These tips can be a guide to a healthier weight.
Track Your Habits
Set Specific and Realistic Goals
Know Your "Why"
Problem Solve
Monitor Your Progress
Find Support
Treatment Options and Approaches
It often takes many strategies and hard work to be successful. Things like health problems, stress, genes, hormones, your environment, medicines, and age can make weight loss harder. Work with your care team to create a plan that's right for you.
Supported by
References
Download PDF
This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for the medical advice of a healthcare professional.
Return to Main page
Description
BMI Category
Under 18.5
18.5 - 24.9
25 - 29.9
30 - 34.9
35 - 39.9
40 or more
Underweight
Healthy Weight
Overweight
Class 1 Obesity
Class 2 Obesity
Class 3 Obesity
Return to Main page
References
Return to Main page
CKD can:
Obesity can: