Why I Started The Kidney Nutrition Experts: Bridging the CKD Support Gap in Birmingham

Written by Danielle Gersmehl, RD LDN

The Problem I Couldn’t Unsee

As a registered dietitian working with people on dialysis, I’ve had the honor of supporting many patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) — those who are already on dialysis and working hard to maintain their health.

But over time, something started to bother me deeply.

Patient after patient would share a version of the same story:

“I didn’t know what to eat.”“No one told me how to slow this down.”“I wish I had gotten help sooner.”

And what broke my heart the most was knowing they were right.

In Birmingham, like in many cities, there’s strong infrastructure for people once they’ve reached dialysis — in fact, there are dietitians assigned to every dialysis center. But what about the thousands of people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who haven’t reached that point yet?

Who’s helping them?

The CKD Support Gap

There are so many people in our community — hardworking, caring, often overwhelmed — trying to navigate a CKD diagnosis with little to no nutrition support.

They’re told:

• “Watch your salt.”

• “Avoid potassium.”

• “Don’t eat too much protein.”

But they’re rarely told how to do that in real life, or what matters most for their unique stage of kidney disease.

What makes it worse?

• Primary care offices are overloaded.

• Nephrology visits can be rushed.

• And most insurance plans don’t make it easy to get connected with a renal dietitian before dialysis begins.

Meanwhile, nutrition can play a huge role in:

• Slowing disease progression

• Managing symptoms like fatigue and swelling

• Supporting heart health and blood pressure

• Preserving kidney function

• Delaying (or even preventing) dialysis

Why I Started The Kidney Nutrition Experts

I created The Kidney Nutrition Experts to fill this critical gap — not just in Birmingham, but for anyone looking for clear, expert support before dialysis ever begins.

As a certified Kidney Health Coach and registered dietitian, I specialize in working with people who:

• Have just been diagnosed with CKD

• Are trying to avoid dialysis

• Are overwhelmed by conflicting information online

• Want a plan that’s realistic, personalized, and grounded in real science

And I do it all through virtual visits — so patients can get help from the comfort of their homes, on their schedule.

If This Is You, You're Not Alone

If you’ve been told to “watch your diet” but haven’t gotten much more than a handout or a list of foods to avoid — I see you.

If you’re afraid of what’s next and want to do everything you can to stay healthy — you’re in the right place.

And if you’ve been feeling confused, restricted, or just stuck — know that there’s a better way forward.

Let’s Change the Narrative Together

CKD doesn't have to be a silent journey. With the right support, you can make powerful changes to protect your kidneys — and I’d love to help.

Work with a registered dietitian who specializes in CKD and cares deeply about your story.

Book a virtual appointment here

Questions? Email me at info@kidneynutritionexpert.com

You deserve real support. Let’s make it happen.

Danielle Gersmehl, RD, LDN

Certified Kidney Health Coach

Founder, The Kidney Nutrition Experts