Kidney Wellness with Dr. Bismah

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan reveals how some commonly recommended “healthy” dietary habits may actually accelerate kidney damage—especially in individuals with early or moderate kidney dysfunction.Dr. Bismah explains that kidneys under stress process nutrients very differently, and that standard nutrition advice can unintentionally increase toxic waste buildup, inflammation, and scarring of delicate kidney blood vessels.She breaks down three hidden kidney stressors:Excessive animal protein, which increases urea and creatinine load and generates kidney-damaging Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs), especially when grilled or fried High-sodium processed foods, including “healthy” whole-grain breads and cereals that silently drive protein leakage in urine Phosphate additives, which are nearly 100% absorbed, promote vascular calcification, weaken bones, and accelerate kidney declineDr. Bismah also shares practical, realistic swaps—such as favoring plant-based proteins, rinsing canned foods to dramatically reduce sodium, and learning how to spot hidden “PHOS” additives on labels.Most importantly, she highlights a real-world success story of a patient with Stage 3 kidney disease who improved her GFR by 8 points in just six months by reducing processed foods and lowering her kidney’s daily burden.This episode empowers listeners to make smarter, kidney-protective nutrition choices that reduce strain, slow disease progression, and support long-term renal health.Dr. Bismah Irfan explains how excessive animal protein, hidden sodium, and phosphate additives can accelerate kidney damage—and what to eat instead to protect kidney function.I’m Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, a board-certified nephrologist and functional medicine physician. I help patients with kidney disease understand how nutrition, lifestyle, and medical care intersect—so they can slow disease progression, avoid preventable damage, and protect long-term health.Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Produced by DrTalks ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan uncovers a critical and often overlooked consequence of anti-CD20 therapies such as Rituximab, Ocrelizumab, and Ofatumumab: long-term immune memory loss.While these medications are life-saving for conditions like kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, and cancer, they work by eliminating B cells—the immune cells responsible for remembering past infections and vaccines. Emerging research now shows that for many patients, these cells do not fully recover, even years after treatment ends.Dr. Bismah reviews compelling long-term studies revealing persistent depletion of memory B cells, loss of vaccine protection, low recovery rates, and serious clinical consequences such as recurrent infections and increased mortality. She explains why “young” B cells may return while switched memory B cells fail to regenerate, and how bone marrow damage, chronic inflammation, and overlapping immunosuppressive therapies may contribute.Most concerning, Dr. Bismah highlights a major blind spot in modern medical care: the majority of patients receiving anti-CD20 therapy never have their immunoglobulin levels or B-cell subsets monitored, leaving them vulnerable without knowing it.This episode empowers patients and clinicians with practical steps—testing, monitoring, and informed advocacy—to protect immune health while navigating necessary treatment.Dr. Bismah Irfan explains how anti-CD20 therapies can cause long-term immune memory loss, vaccine failure, infection risk, and why immune monitoring is essential.I’m Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, a board-certified nephrologist and functional medicine physician. I help patients with kidney disease and complex immune conditions navigate personalized, evidence-based strategies to protect long-term health and avoid preventable complications.Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Produced by DrTalks ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan exposes the hidden dangers of the multi-billion-dollar detox and supplement industry—particularly its impact on kidney health. She explains why the term “natural” is a marketing label, not a safety guarantee, and how many popular cleanses place dangerous stress on the kidneys.Dr. Bismah breaks down the myth of detoxing, clarifying that the body already has highly efficient filtration systems—the liver and kidneys—and that concentrated herbal supplements only increase their workload. She also explores the regulatory “grey zone” created by the DSHEA Act of 1994, which allows supplements to be sold without proof of safety or effectiveness.Through real clinical cases, Dr. Bismah shares how a so-called “kidney cleanse” led to irreversible kidney decline in one patient, while a juice cleanse caused life-threatening potassium levels and emergency dialysis in another.Rather than miracle cures, she emphasizes evidence-based kidney support: hydration with plain water, whole foods over juices, controlling blood pressure and diabetes, and individualized care guided by a physician.Dr. Bismah Irfan reveals why detoxes and “natural” supplements can harm kidneys, explains supplement industry risks, and shares safe, evidence-based kidney support strategies.Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Produced by DrTalks ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan exposes a hidden danger in renal care: many foods promoted as “superfoods” can accelerate kidney damage in patients with impaired function. She explains why generic health advice can be toxic without considering an individual’s kidney health.Dr. Bismah discusses the “Green Smoothie Paradox,” where high-oxalate greens like spinach and kale can form calcium-oxalate crystals in the kidneys, triggering inflammation and fibrosis. She also highlights other “health halo” foods—brown rice, whole grains, starfruit, coconut water, and protein shakes—that can be risky for kidney patients.Protective strategies include choosing low-oxalate greens, ensuring adequate calcium intake to bind oxalates, and monitoring hydration and electrolyte-rich drinks. Personalized nutrition, she emphasizes, is essential: what heals a healthy person may harm a struggling kidney.Dr. Bismah Irfan explains why “superfoods” like spinach, kale, and coconut water can harm kidneys, and provides kidney-safe nutrition strategies for optimal health.I’m Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, a board-certified nephrologist and functional medicine physician. I help patients with kidney disease navigate personalized nutrition strategies to protect their kidneys while still enjoying a balanced, health-supportive diet.Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Produced by DrTalks ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan explains why many patients with chronic illness—especially kidney disease—feel fatigued and unwell even when their standard blood tests appear normal.She reveals that conventional medicine often measures the quantity of immune cells, but the true story lies in their quality and balance. Chronic immune activation combined with innate immune depletion creates a hidden pattern of overworked T-cells and exhausted Natural Killer (NK) cells.Dr. Bismah outlines common invisible triggers for immune exhaustion, including viral reactivation (EBV, CMV), mold and mycotoxins, heavy metals, and chronic stress. This "inflammatory soup" damages kidney filters, inflames the gut-kidney axis, and can even promote autoimmune attacks on kidney tissue.She provides a structured action plan for recovery, including specialized immune testing, environmental detox, and targeted support with nutrients and medicinal mushrooms to restore immune balance and kidney resilience.Dr. Bismah Irfan reveals why standard blood work can miss hidden immune exhaustion, the effects on kidney health, and a three-step approach to restore T-cell and NK cell function.I’m Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, a board-certified nephrologist and functional medicine physician. I help patients uncover hidden immune dysfunction, reduce systemic inflammation, and restore kidney and overall health with targeted testing, environmental interventions, and nutrient support.Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Produced by DrTalks ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan challenges conventional thinking about heart and kidney health, revealing that vascular disease is driven by clotting, inflammation, and metabolic dysfunction—not just cholesterol.She explains how arterial plaques are primarily composed of fibrin, platelets, inflammatory debris, and cholesterol trapped from red blood cells, rather than circulating LDL. Dr. Bismah highlights the intimate connection between the heart and kidneys, showing that patients with chronic kidney disease are up to 10 times more likely to die from cardiovascular events.Dr. Bismah identifies the five systemic forces damaging blood vessels: chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, abnormal clotting, and metabolic dysfunction. She provides actionable strategies, including advanced blood testing (Oxidized LDL, Lipoprotein(a), Fibrinogen, Homocysteine, High-Sensitivity CRP), dietary changes, lifestyle support, and treating hidden infections.By addressing the vascular system holistically, patients can improve both heart and kidney function simultaneously, rather than treating organs in isolation.Dr. Bismah Irfan reveals the hidden causes of heart and kidney disease, including clotting, inflammation, and metabolic dysfunction, and shares personalized strategies for vascular health beyond cholesterol.I’m Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, a board-certified nephrologist and functional medicine physician. I help patients optimize heart and kidney health by addressing systemic causes of inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and vascular damage.Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Produced by DrTalks ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan explores the exciting frontier of regenerative medicine for kidney disease, including the investigational therapy Ril Perincil, presented at Kidney Week 2025.Ril Perincil uses a patient’s own kidney cells, expanded in the lab, to create a personalized cell therapy designed to repair damaged kidney tissue. Dr. Bismah explains how this approach has shown meaningful improvements in kidney function (up to 4.5 eGFR points) in patients with stage 3–4 CKD.She also shares her clinical insights on optimizing delivery methods, advocating for intravenous (IV) administration instead of direct kidney injections to reduce risks such as bleeding, radiation exposure, and complications, while still achieving precise targeting of damaged kidney tissue.Dr. Bismah explains the principle of homing, where regenerative cells and exosomes naturally migrate to injured kidney tissue, releasing growth factors and anti-inflammatory molecules, and highlights how these therapies work best when combined with functional medicine protocols addressing root causes, inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and toxin burden.If you or a loved one has kidney disease, this episode provides a fascinating look at how personalized regenerative therapies are poised to transform kidney care safely and effectively.----Dr. Bismah Irfan explains new regenerative medicine advances for kidney disease, including personalized kidney cell therapy, how IV administration enhances safety and effectiveness, and the role of functional medicine in supporting kidney healing.----I’m Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, a board-certified nephrologist and functional medicine physician. I help patients heal from kidney disease by integrating regenerative therapies with functional medicine approaches that address the root causes of inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and tissue damage.----Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan breaks down groundbreaking new research showing that GLP-1 medications—like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound—may be some of the most powerful tools we have for protecting and even improving kidney function.Dr. Bismah explains the REMODEL Trial, a first-of-its-kind 1-year study that used kidney biopsies, advanced MRI imaging, and molecular analysis to see exactly how semaglutide changes kidney tissue. The results were remarkable: a 40% reduction in proteinuria, a 2–3 point increase in eGFR, and dramatic reductions in fat inside and around the kidneys.----Dr. Bismah Irfan explains new REMODEL Trial research showing how GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro directly protect kidney tissue, reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and may slow or reverse CKD progression.----I’m Dr. Bismah Irfan, a board-certified nephrologist and functional medicine physician. I help patients heal from kidney disease and chronic inflammation by addressing the root causes and using personalized, science-backed strategies.----Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan breaks down groundbreaking 2025 research revealing how a natural plant compound—Kaempferol—protects the kidneys at a deep molecular level. Found in everyday foods like onions, kale, broccoli, and green tea, Kaempferol is proving far more powerful than previously understood.Dr. Bismah explains how researchers used advanced network pharmacology to discover that Kaempferol targets a key pathway involved in chronic kidney disease (CKD). It binds to PISA-1, preventing activation of the HIF1-alpha pathway and blocking the metabolic shift that fuels inflammation and tissue damage. This stops the NLRP3-inflammasome, a major driver of inflammatory cell death in CKD.She also highlights animal research showing multi-targeted benefits—from reduced oxidative stress and inflammation to improved kidney structure and function.But most importantly, Dr. Bismah shares how simple dietary habits—like eating onions, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and enjoying green tea—can help your body access this protective compound naturally. She also explains why combining these foods with healthy fats boosts absorption and effectiveness.If you want to support your kidney health with science-backed dietary strategies, this is a must-listen episode.----Dr. Bismah Irfan explains new 2025 research on Kaempferol, a natural plant compound found in everyday foods that protects the kidneys by blocking key inflammatory pathways and supporting metabolic balance.----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan breaks down the exciting new research on Sibiprenly-Mab, a promising monoclonal antibody treatment for IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) presented at Kidney Week 2025.She explains how this medication targets APRIL, a key survival signal for the immune cells that produce the harmful Galactose-deficient IgA (Gd-IgA1). By blocking APRIL, Sibiprenly-Mab reduces the production of these pathogenic antibodies at their source—leading to a 56% reduction in proteinuria and remission in over a third of trial participants.But while the drug shows incredible potential as a disease-modifying therapy, Dr. Bismah highlights what it doesn’t address: the root causes of immune dysregulation that drive IgAN. She discusses overlooked triggers like gut barrier dysfunction, microbiome imbalance, hidden infections, toxins, and food sensitivities—and explains why integrating functional medicine with conventional treatment leads to more durable, long-term healing.If you or a loved one has IgA Nephropathy, this is an essential, hopeful episode that shows how cutting-edge science and root-cause medicine can work together.----Dr. Bismah Irfan breaks down the new IgA Nephropathy drug Sibiprenly-Mab, how it works, its promising clinical results, and why addressing root causes through functional medicine remains essential for long-term kidney healing.----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan exposes the hidden risks behind the multi-billion-dollar detox and cleanse industry. Many “natural” products and juice cleanses can actually harm your kidneys, especially if you already have reduced kidney function.Dr. Irfan explains why your body’s liver and kidneys are already highly efficient at detoxification, and why adding unregulated supplements or concentrated juices often does more harm than good. She shares real-life patient stories of kidney injury caused by supplements and potassium-rich juice cleanses, and highlights how natural or traditional remedies are not automatically safe.You’ll also learn evidence-based strategies for kidney health, including hydration, balanced nutrition, blood pressure and blood sugar management, and avoiding harmful habits—root-cause approaches that truly support your kidneys.If you’ve ever considered a “detox,” cleanse, or herbal supplement for kidney health, this episode is a must-listen.----Dr. Bismah Irfan warns about the dangers of detoxes, cleanses, and unregulated supplements on kidney health, sharing evidence-based strategies to protect and support your kidneys.----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan dives deep into a growing question among patients and wellness enthusiasts alike — Is CBD safe for your kidneys?Dr. Irfan explains how the kidneys have their own endocannabinoid system (with CB1 and CB2 receptors) that helps regulate inflammation and blood flow — and why this same system can become a problem when overactivated, especially in people with diabetes, obesity, or metabolic syndrome.You’ll learn the key differences between CBD and THC, why product quality and purity are non-negotiable, and how metabolic context determines whether CBD could help or harm.Dr. Irfan also shares how she uses pharmaceutical-grade hemp extracts selectively in her clinical practice, the dangers of synthetic cannabinoids like K2 and Spice, and why root-cause medicine—addressing blood sugar, gut health, stress, and toxins—always comes first.If you’ve ever considered using CBD for pain, inflammation, or sleep support, this episode is a must-listen before you buy another bottle online.Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan dives into one of the most misunderstood areas of health—kidney disease myths that may be preventing people from taking proactive steps toward healing.From “normal” lab results to protein fears and dialysis myths, Dr. Bismah breaks down the top five misconceptions surrounding kidney health. Drawing from functional and integrative medicine, she explains why standard labs may miss early dysfunction, how younger people are increasingly affected, and why hydration and protein guidelines must be personalized—not one-size-fits-all.You’ll also learn why kidney disease doesn’t have to be a one-way path to dialysis. By uncovering and addressing root causes like inflammation, toxin exposure, and gut health, many patients can stabilize—and even improve—their kidney function.This episode empowers you to look beyond averages, understand optimal health markers, and take charge of your kidney wellness with clarity and confidence.If you’ve ever been told “your labs are normal” but still don’t feel your best, this episode is for you.-----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, we’re exploring one of the most talked-about wellness trends in kidney care—hydrogen water.Hydrogen water is simply regular water infused with extra molecular hydrogen (H₂). Despite its simplicity, this tiny molecule may have powerful biological effects. Molecular hydrogen is the smallest molecule in the universe, small enough to cross cell membranes, enter mitochondria, and even pass through the blood-brain barrier.So, what does the science say? Research suggests that hydrogen may act as a selective antioxidant, targeting only the most harmful free radicals while leaving beneficial ones alone. It also appears to support mitochondrial health and regulate inflammation at the cellular level.For kidney health, early studies in animals and small human trials have shown hydrogen’s potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation—two major drivers of kidney damage. But while these results are promising, large-scale human studies are still needed.Dr. Bismah Irfan from the Holistic Kidney Institute explains why hydrogen water should be viewed as a complementary tool, not a cure-all. She shares how it can fit into a broader, root-cause approach that includes nutrition, blood sugar balance, gut healing, and toxin reduction.We’ll also discuss practical considerations—cost, safety, and realistic expectations—so you can make informed decisions about adding hydrogen water to your wellness routine.If you’re curious about cutting-edge kidney health strategies that blend science and holistic care, this episode will help you separate facts from fads.-----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, we’re diving into one of the most groundbreaking and hope-filled areas of kidney care—stem cell therapy.As we get older, our body’s natural ability to repair itself slows down. One big reason? We lose stem cells—the “master cells” that help heal and regenerate our tissues. By age 60, many of us have lost nearly 90% of them. That loss can play a big role in chronic inflammation, slower recovery, and kidney decline.But here’s the exciting part: regenerative medicine is changing the game. I’ll walk you through new research, including a Mayo Clinic study showing how patients who received their own stem cells before dialysis surgery had better healing and longer-lasting results.You’ll also learn why umbilical cord-derived stem cells are especially powerful—young, potent, and naturally calming to the immune system—and how exosomes, the “messenger packages” stem cells release, can supercharge repair.Most importantly, I’ll explain why stem cell therapy works best as part of a holistic plan—addressing root causes like inflammation, gut health, toxin exposure, and nutrient deficiencies. I’ll share a real-world story of a patient with Stage 4 kidney disease whose function improved and who remains dialysis-free today.If you’re curious about the future of kidney health and the power of regeneration, this episode will give you real-world insights, grounded in science and experience.Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, I’m tackling one of the most common questions I get: Is creatine bad for your kidneys?Creatine is one of the most studied and effective supplements for energy, strength, and even brain health. But there’s a catch: creatine breaks down into creatinine—the very marker doctors use to measure kidney function. This can make it look like your kidneys are failing, even when they’re perfectly healthy.I’ll explain what this means for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and people at higher risk of kidney disease. You’ll learn who can safely use creatine, who needs to be cautious, and what tests are better for monitoring kidney health if you supplement.Supplements should support—not replace—a strong foundation of diet, movement, sleep, and stress balance. Let’s clear up the confusion about creatine and your kidneys once and for all.----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, is a board-certified nephrologist specializing in functional medicine approaches to kidney health. She helps patients heal from chronic kidney disease, inflammation, and immune dysfunction by addressing root causes with personalized strategies.-----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks: ⁠⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, I’m sharing an important message of hope: dialysis is not always inevitable. Nearly 40% of patients who start dialysis could have potentially delayed—or even avoided—it with earlier, comprehensive intervention.Dialysis changes everything: 3–4 weekly sessions, hours at a time, and a lower quality of life. But through a holistic, root-cause approach, many patients can preserve kidney function longer and, in some cases, improve it.I’ll walk you through the major drivers of kidney decline—like chronic inflammation, gut imbalance, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and toxic burden—and how we can address them using nutrition, functional testing, and lifestyle medicine.Dialysis doesn’t have to be your only path. With personalized care, you can take back control of your kidney health and quality of life.-----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, is a board-certified nephrologist specializing in functional medicine approaches to kidney health. She helps patients heal from chronic kidney disease, inflammation, and immune dysfunction by addressing root causes with personalized strategies.-----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠⁠-----Produced by DrTalks: ⁠⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, I’m sharing an exciting breakthrough from Harvard on MUC1 kidney disease, a rare genetic condition that causes toxic proteins to build up inside kidney cells. Researchers have discovered a compound, BRD4780, that can clear these proteins and may one day offer a real treatment option.But while we wait for clinical trials, there’s so much we can do today. Using the science of epigenetics, we can influence how our genes behave through nutrition, fasting, lifestyle, and targeted supplements. I’ll walk you through simple, science-backed strategies that reduce inflammation, boost antioxidant defenses, and strengthen kidney health—even if you carry genetic risks.Your genes are not your destiny. The choices you make every day can rewrite your story.-----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, is a board-certified nephrologist specializing in functional medicine approaches to kidney health. She helps patients heal from chronic kidney disease, inflammation, and immune dysfunction by addressing root causes with personalized strategies.-----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMD⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/⁠Website: ⁠https://www.drbismah.com/about/⁠-----Produced by DrTalks: ⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, introduces Extracorporeal Blood Oxygenation and Ozonation (EBOO), a promising therapy often described as a “spa treatment” for the blood. She explains how EBOO works—blood is drawn, filtered, infused with a precise ozone-oxygen mix, and returned to the body—filtering nearly half the total blood volume in a single session.Dr. Irfan discusses how EBOO enhances circulation, reduces inflammation, activates antioxidant defenses, and even provides antimicrobial benefits. She also emphasizes important safety considerations, including G6PD enzyme deficiency testing and contraindications, especially for kidney patients.At The Kidney Institute, Dr. Irfan uses kidney-safe filters and carefully calibrated ozone doses to make EBOO both safe and effective for those with compromised kidney function.-----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, is a board-certified nephrologist specializing in functional medicine approaches to kidney health. She helps patients heal from chronic kidney disease, inflammation, and immune dysfunction by addressing root causes with personalized strategies.-----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMDInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/Website: https://www.drbismah.com/about/-----Produced by DrTalks: https://drtalks.com/podcast/

In this episode of Wellness Focused, Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, explores the science-backed benefits of hibiscus tea for kidney health. While many herbs are marketed for kidney support, hibiscus stands out with strong research evidence.Dr. Irfan also shares a real-life case of a stage 3 chronic kidney disease patient who stabilized kidney function and reduced inflammation with hibiscus tea as part of a holistic protocol. She offers practical advice on preparation, dosage, and safety precautions—especially for those on blood pressure medications or diuretics.Dr. Bismah Irfan, MD, is a board-certified nephrologist specializing in functional medicine approaches to kidney health. She helps patients heal from chronic kidney disease, inflammation, and immune dysfunction by addressing root causes with personalized strategies.-----Dr. Bismah Irfan, MDFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/KidneyHealthMDInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/kidney.healthmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbismah/Website: https://www.drbismah.com/about/-----Produced by DrTalks: https://drtalks.com/podcast/