Chronic kidney disease

• Published ResearchChronic kidney disease (CKD) is a well-documented, progressive loss of kidney function with established diagnostic markers such as eGFR and creatinine trends.
• Educational RecommendationUnderstanding your own lab trends over time, not just a single reading, is a useful starting point for kidney-health education.

Kidney function and metabolic health

• Stephen's InterpretationStephen views kidney function as closely tied to broader metabolic health, rather than an isolated organ system.
• Educational RecommendationMetabolic markers (blood sugar, lipids, blood pressure) are worth tracking alongside kidney-specific labs.

Niacin research

Stephen's interest in niacin grew out of his broader lipidology background. His ongoing work focuses on how niacin, often combined with sodium bicarbonate, may support kidney function in chronic kidney disease — including how to manage flushing, a common reaction some people notice when starting niacin.

Visit the Niacin Resource Center → for the full flushing-management guide, titration protocol, scientific evidence, and FAQ.

Sodium bicarbonate research

• Published ResearchSodium bicarbonate's role in managing metabolic acidosis in CKD has been studied in the published nephrology literature.
• Emerging HypothesisStephen's ongoing work explores how sodium bicarbonate may complement other kidney-health strategies, alongside niacin, as an area for continued study.

Lipid metabolism

• Published ResearchAs a lipid specialist, Stephen's core training is in lipid metabolism and its downstream effects on cardiovascular and renal health.
• Stephen's InterpretationHe views lipid management as a foundational piece of a broader kidney-health strategy, not a standalone fix.

Blood pressure and vascular health

• Published ResearchBlood pressure control is a well-established factor in slowing CKD progression.
• Educational RecommendationRegular blood pressure monitoring, in coordination with a physician, is encouraged as part of any kidney-health strategy.

Nutrition and lifestyle

• Educational RecommendationDiet, hydration, and lifestyle habits are discussed as supportive factors alongside, not instead of, medical care.
• ObservationStephen has observed that consistent, sustainable habits tend to matter more than short-term dietary extremes.

Patient education

• Educational RecommendationA core part of Stephen's mission is translating research and lab data into language patients can actually use in conversations with their care team.

Monitoring and medical supervision

• Educational RecommendationAny changes to diet, supplements, or medication should be introduced gradually and reviewed with a qualified healthcare provider, with regular lab monitoring.