Vero Nutrition

19/01/2025

Oat & Banana Muffins🍪
Serving : 12
Prep : 15 min
Cooking : 25 min

Ingredients :
1¼ cups all-purpose flour
1¼ cups old fashioned rolled oats
¼ cup brown sugar
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
⅔ cup milk
⅓ cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mashed ripe banana (about 2 bananas)
½ cup chocolate chips optional

Instructions :
Preheat the oven to 350 ॰F. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, egg, brown sugar, and vanilla until well combined. Stir in the mashed banana. Pour the milk mixture into the oat mixture and stir together until well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips, if using.
Divide the batter among the paper liners.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and the centers feel firm. Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes, then remove and continue cooling on a wire rack.

https://www.veronutrition.com/post/oat-banana-muffins

21/07/2024

Navigating Insurance Coverage for Nutrition Counseling in Chronic Kidney Disease

The Importance of Nutrition Counseling in CKD

Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing CKD. Proper dietary habits can help control blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and reduce the burden on the kidneys. A registered dietitian who specializes in kidney health can provide personalized dietary advice that takes into account the severity of the disease, co-existing medical conditions, and individual nutritional needs. This guidance is vital in slowing the progression of CKD and preventing complications such as heart disease.

Understanding Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage for nutrition counseling for CKD is often covered. However, the amount of sessions allowed and copays can vary widely depending on the insurance provider and the specific plan.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Medicare Coverage: Medicare Part B covers medical nutrition therapy (MNT) for diagnoses of diabetes, non-dialysis kidney disease, and 36 months post kidney transplant when a Medicare beneficiary has been referred by a physician. Medicare covers 3 hours of MNT the initial year of referral and up to 2 hours of MNT for subsequent years. Hours are based on the calendar year and cannot be carried over from year to year.

2. Private Insurance Plans: Coverage for nutrition counseling under private insurance plans can differ. Many plans include nutrition counseling as part of preventive services or disease management programs. It's essential to check with your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your coverage.

3. Referral Requirements: Some insurance plans may require a referral from a primary care physician or nephrologist for nutrition counseling to be covered. Ensure you have the necessary referrals to avoid any out-of-pocket expenses.

4. In-Network vs. Out-of-Network: If we are considered “out of network” or we do not participate with your insurance, we can still work together. We charge our regular rate and provide a superbill (a receipt for your insurance) for you to submit to your insurance for reimbursement. Each insurance company’s policy and way for submitting superbills is different. Call your insurance company to find out how to submit.

5. Number of Sessions: Insurance plans may limit the number of covered nutrition counseling sessions per year. Be aware of these limits and plan your visits accordingly to make the most out of your benefits.

Steps to Take

1. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Call your insurance provider to inquire about coverage for nutrition counseling, specific requirements, and any associated costs. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect.

2. Get a Referral: If required, obtain a referral from your healthcare provider. This step is crucial for ensuring your sessions are covered.

3. Find an In-Network Dietitian: Use your insurance provider’s directory or ask your healthcare provider for recommendations to find a registered dietitian who is in-network and specializes in CKD.

4. Keep Records: Maintain records of all communications with your insurance provider, referrals, and receipts from your sessions. This can be helpful if any issues arise regarding coverage.

Nutrition counseling is an invaluable resource for individuals managing chronic kidney disease. Understanding and navigating insurance coverage for this service can make it more accessible and affordable. By being proactive and informed, you can ensure you receive the necessary support to manage your condition effectively. If you have CKD, reach out to your healthcare provider and insurance company today to explore your options for nutrition counseling.

https://www.veronutrition.com/

08/07/2024

30/06/2024

🌞An alternative to water to quench your thirst. While water remains my favorite choice for hydration, this Hibiscus lemonade is a great low sugar option. Plus, studies have shown that drinking 2 cups of Hibiscus tea every day can lower your blood pressure.

Hibiscus tea is made from the dried petals of the Hibiscus sabdariffa flower, commonly known as Roselle. This deep red beverage has been used in traditional medicine across various cultures, particularly in Africa and Asia. The active compounds in hibiscus tea, primarily anthocyanins and other antioxidants, are believed to contribute to its health benefits.

How Does Hibiscus Tea Work?
The blood pressure-lowering effects of hibiscus tea can be attributed to several mechanisms:
✅️ Diuretic Effect: Hibiscus tea acts as a natural diuretic, helping the body get rid of excess salt and water, which can contribute to lower blood pressure.
✅️ Vasodilation: The antioxidants in hibiscus tea, particularly anthocyanins, help relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing pressure on the arterial walls.
✅️Anti-inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation is a known contributor to hypertension. Hibiscus tea's anti-inflammatory properties can help mitigate this risk factor.

⚠️While hibiscus tea is generally safe for most people, it is essential to consider if you are on medication for hypertension or other conditions, consult your provider before adding hibiscus tea to your regimen, as it can interact with certain medications.

🍋Hibiscus Lemonade 🍋
Ingredients
2 Hibiscus Tea Bags
16 oz Water
4 oz Lemonade
2 tsp sugar
1/8 tsp Vanilla (optional)
Mint leave and / or lemon slices (optional)

Preparation
1. Boil water.
2. Remove from heat and add tea bags, sugar, and vanilla.
3. Allow to sit for 15 minutes.
4. Remove tea bags and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Add ice to a tall glass. Add 8 oz tea and 2 oz of lemonade per serving.
6. Garnish with mint leaves and / or lemon slices if desired.

https://www.veronutrition.com/post/hibiscus-lemonade

10/06/2024

June 10th is . Whether you use black, green or white, fresh-brewed teas can be great options for people with kidney disease. Teas are generally rich sources of polyphenols while being low in potassium, phosphorus and sodium when consumed in moderation (8-16 oz daily). Be careful with bottled or instant versions as they will often contain phosphate additives and be thoughtful with sweetened options that can contain large amounts of added sugar.

Reference: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html #/food-search?query=tea&type=SR%20Legacy

25/05/2024

LETTUCE WRAPS
Are you trying to eat less meat? Give this recipe a try. That is the only way I get my husband to eat tofu! Find the full recipe: https://www.veronutrition.com/post/lettuce-wraps

19/05/2024

Is drinking coffee allowed or safe when you have chronic kidney disease? 🍮
A 8 oz cup of coffee (regular brewed) has about 120 mg of Potassium, 10 mg of Phosphorus and 90 mg of Caffeine. Coffee has a moderate amount of potassium and keep in mind that coffee counts toward your fluid that your allowed for the day. Plain black coffee is low in phosphorus but the problem is what you will add to it. Be careful because some creamers contain added phosphorus. Read your labels and look for PHOS additives!

What's your favorite way to drink your coffee?

08/05/2024

PHOS SWAP

Are you trying to avoid PHOS additives in your diet and find it difficult?

Here is a couple of examples

08/05/2024

PHOSPHORUS
Phosphorus is a mineral found in your bones. Along with calcium, phosphorus is needed to build strong healthy bones, as well as, keeping other parts of your body healthy. In our foods we can find phosphorus naturally in certain foods or added to processed food as an additive.
People with CKD tend to accumulate phosphorus in their blood. Elevated phosphorus levels have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Excess phosphorus can bind with phosphorus in your blood and create calcium deposit in your blood vessels. This vascular calcification adds to arterial stiffness and cardiovascular events.
High phosphorus can also weaken your bones overtime. This happens when abnormal phosphorus levels can affect the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23).
Strategies to reduce your phosphorus intake:
Read your food labels and avoid those 4 letters “PHOS” in the ingredient foods that you eat. Phosphorus additives, such as phosphoric acid and sodium phosphate, are commonly found in processed foods and beverages and should be minimized.
Phosphorus binders are a class of medications that can be prescribed to bind phosphorus in your GI tract to reduce how much phosphorus you will absorb.

08/05/2024

KIDNEY FRIENDLY TACO 🌮

INGREDIENTS
1 lb extra lean ground beef
1 tsp avocado oil
1/2 onion chopped
1 canned of black beans rinsed
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1/2 tsp red peper flakes
Tortillas
Lettuce
1/4 cup shredded sharp Cheddar
Garnish (Cilantro, Diced Fresh Tomatoes, Avocado, Sour Cream)

PREPARATION
1. Add oil to a pan and brown the meat.
2. Add onion and cook until there is no more pink in the meat.
3. Add black beans and spices.
4. Build your tacos and add any extra topping that you would like!

Tip: Watch the ingredient list to avoid PHOS additives for your tortillas as many tortillas contain PHOS additives. Check out a few suggestions.

10/03/2024

PHOSPHORUS
Phosphorus is a mineral found in your bones. Along with calcium, phosphorus is needed to build strong healthy bones, as well as, keeping other parts of your body healthy. In our foods we can find phosphorus naturally in certain foods or added to processed food as an additive.
People with CKD tend to accumulate phosphorus in their blood. Elevated phosphorus levels have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Excess phosphorus can bind with phosphorus in your blood and create calcium deposit in your blood vessels. This vascular calcification adds to arterial stiffness and cardiovascular events.
High phosphorus can also weaken your bones overtime. This happens when abnormal phosphorus levels can affect the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23).
Strategies to reduce your phosphorus intake:
Read your food labels and avoid those 4 letters “PHOS” in the ingredient foods that you eat. Phosphorus additives, such as phosphoric acid and sodium phosphate, are commonly found in processed foods and beverages and should be minimized.
Phosphorus binders are a class of medications that can be prescribed to bind phosphorus in your GI tract to reduce how much phosphorus you will absorb.

10/02/2024

SALT OR SODIUM

We know that people with Chronic Kidney Disease need to watch different aspects of their diet. Sodium, a mineral commonly found in table salt and many processed foods, plays a significant role in fluid balance and blood pressure regulation. However, when your kidneys are not working at 100% it becomes important to manage the amount of sodium ingested each day. It is important to prevent any health complications that can happen over time.

THE ROLE OF SODIUM IN CKD:
-> Fluid Balance Regulation: Sodium exerts its influence on fluid balance by regulating the movement of water across cell membranes. In individuals with impaired kidney function, the ability to excrete excess sodium may be decreased which can lead to fluid retention and edema.
-> Blood Pressure Control: High sodium intake is strongly associated with hypertension, a common complication of CKD. Elevated blood pressure can accelerate kidney damage, worsening the progression of CKD and increasing the risk of cardiovascular events.
-> Electrolyte Imbalance: CKD often disrupts the body's electrolyte balance, including sodium levels. Abnormal sodium levels can contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, confusion, and muscle weakness.

STRATEGIES TO LOWER SODIUM INTAKE
-> Stay away from processed foods as much as possible. This includes reducing the consumption of high-sodium foods such as processed snacks, canned soups, and processed meats. Instead, focus on fresh or frozen fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are naturally lower in sodium.
-> Read your food labels. Paying attention to serving sizes and sodium content per serving can help in making informed choices. Focus on foods that provide less than 15% of the Daily Value (D.V.).
-> Limit how much salt you use when you are cooking. For added flavor, make sure to add herbs, spices, and vinegar to your food.
-> Make your own vegetable or chicken broth instead of using store bought broth.