NiuOla Health Newsletter March 2026:
Celebrating National Kidney Month
Discover More
Updates
Stay informed with the latest happenings.
Learn More
Featured Article
Discover in-depth insights.
Quick Wellness Tips
Quick advice for everyday wellness.
Myth Busting
Debunking common misconceptions.
Book of the Month
Explore new literary adventures.
Recipes
Explore delicious and healthy recipes.
A Warm Hello from Dr. Tui
Hi everyone! Can you believe March is already here? The rain is still making itself comfortable here in the Pacific Northwest so stay dry out there and maybe treat yourself to a cozy cup of herbal tea! 🍵
This month, we're shining a spotlight on something that quietly works hard for you every single day: your kidneys. These two incredible organs do so much more than most people realize, and taking care of them doesn't have to be complicated. This March, let's learn a little more about kidney health and what simple steps we can take together to keep them happy.
As always, I'm so grateful for this community. You inspire me every single day.
With warmth,
Dr. Tui Lauilefue
📣 NiuOla Health Updates & Announcements
📣 NiuOla Health Updates & Announcements
🚶 Monthly Wellness Walk: March 28th!
Mark your calendars! Our Monthly Wellness Walk is happening on Saturday, March 28th at 10:00 AM at Capitol Lake in Olympia, WA. Meet us at the Marathon Park parking lot.
Come as you are, all paces, all fitness levels, all welcome. This is a judgment-free zone built around movement, fresh air, and good company. Bring a friend, bring your water bottle, and let's move together! 💚
💚 Advanced Cardiac Lab Screen
We're now offering an Advanced Cardiac Lab Screen as an optional add-on. It includes ApoB, Lp(a), and hs-CRP, three heart risk markers that are now guideline-recommended but rarely covered by insurance.
Normally $262.50 at LabCorp, we've negotiated the price down to $40 for our patients, billed to your card on file. These tests can reveal hidden cardiovascular risk that a standard cholesterol panel simply misses, and the brand-new 2026 ACC/AHA Cholesterol Guidelines now formally recommend all three.
No pressure at all. If you'd like to add it on, just text "Cardiac Screen" to 360-382-2762 and Dr. Tui will go over your results with you.
Want to learn more? Check out our patient guide here: Advanced Cardiac Screening Panel
Featured Article
March is National Kidney Month
Featured Article: Your Kidneys Are Working Overtime and Here's How to Support Them
Most of us don't think about our kidneys until something goes wrong. But these two bean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist, are quietly filtering about 200 liters of blood every single day. They regulate blood pressure, balance fluids, remove waste, and even help produce red blood cells. Pretty remarkable, right?
March is National Kidney Month, and it's the perfect time to give these hardworking organs a little appreciation and a little TLC.

Who is at risk for kidney disease?
Kidney disease is more common than most people realize. It affects about 1 in 7 American adults, and many don't know they have it because early stages often have no symptoms. People living with diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, or a family history of kidney disease are at higher risk. That's why regular screening matters so much.

What are the warning signs to watch for?
Because kidney disease can be "silent" in its early stages, it's important to pay attention to subtler signs, including:
  • Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
  • Fatigue or difficulty concentrating
  • Changes in urination (frequency, color, or foaminess)
  • Persistent puffiness around the eyes
  • High blood pressure that's hard to control
If any of these sound familiar, let's talk. Early detection makes a huge difference.
5 Simple Ways to Support Your Kidney Health Starting Today
Drink enough water
Staying hydrated helps your kidneys flush out waste efficiently. Aim for around 6–8 cups of water daily (if no contraindication) or more, if you're active or it's warm outside. Fancy detox drinks are not needed and plain water is genuinely one of the best things you can do.
Reduce sodium intake
Too much salt raises blood pressure, which is one of the leading causes of kidney damage over time. Try cooking more meals at home, reading food labels, and seasoning with herbs and spices instead of reaching for the salt shaker.
Manage blood sugar and blood pressure
Diabetes and hypertension are the top two causes of kidney disease. If you have either condition, staying on top of your management plan is one of the most powerful things you can do for your kidneys.
Be mindful of over-the-counter pain medications
Regular use of NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) can stress the kidneys over time. If you rely on these frequently, let's talk about safer alternatives.
Move your body regularly
Regular physical activity helps manage blood pressure, blood sugar, and body weight, all of which protect your kidneys. Even a 20–30 minute walk most days makes a meaningful difference. (Which is exactly why we're walking together on March 28th! 😊)

The good news? Many of the same healthy habits that support your heart, your weight, and your energy levels also protect your kidneys. It all works together.
💡 Quick Kidney Health Wellness Tips
💧 Morning Hydration
Start your morning with a full glass of water before coffee or tea.
🥗 Fill Half Your Plate
Fill half your plate with vegetables. They're naturally low in sodium and full of kidney-friendly nutrients.
🧂 Taste Before Salting
Taste your food before adding salt. You might be surprised how often you don't actually need it.
🚶 Move Daily
Aim for at least 20–30 minutes of movement most days. Your kidneys (and your heart) will thank you.
🩺 Know Your Numbers
Blood pressure, blood sugar, and kidney function (GFR and creatinine) are important markers to track regularly.
🚫 Avoid Smoking
It reduces blood flow to the kidneys and significantly increases kidney disease risk.
😴 Prioritize Sleep
Poor sleep is linked to higher blood pressure and increased kidney stress over time.
❓ Myth-Busting: Kidney Edition
Q: Do I need a special "kidney cleanse" or detox product to keep my kidneys healthy?
A: Nope! This is one of the most common myths out there. Your kidneys are your body's built-in filtration system. They detox your blood around the clock without any help from expensive teas, juices, or supplements. In fact, some of these products can actually put extra strain on your kidneys.
The best "cleanse"? Drink plenty of water, eat whole foods, move your body, and keep your blood pressure and blood sugar in check. Simple, affordable, and genuinely effective.
Q: If I feel fine, does that mean my kidneys are fine?
A: Not necessarily. Early kidney disease often has no noticeable symptoms, which is exactly why routine lab work is so important. A simple urine test and blood test can catch changes early, when there's the most opportunity to slow or even reverse damage.
Don't wait for symptoms to check in on your kidney health!
📚 Book of the Month
The Cooking Doc's Kidney-Healthy Cooking
by Dr. Blake Shusterman
We picked this one because prevention is everything. The Cooking Doc's Kidney-Healthy Cooking is written by a nephrologist who believes food is medicine, and it's genuinely one of the most approachable guides out there for understanding how to keep your kidneys healthy for the long haul.

A nephrologist who believes food is medicine, this book makes kidney-healthy eating genuinely accessible and delicious.
🥗 Nourish Your Body: Kidney-Friendly Recipes
🥗 Nourish Your Body: Kidney-Friendly Recipes
Eating for kidney health doesn't mean bland or boring food. Here are three delicious recipes to try this month:
This plant-based dish is packed with flavor and a wonderful kidney-friendly option: tofu is a great lower-phosphorus protein alternative to meat, and the fajita spices bring all the bold taste without the heavy sodium of restaurant versions. A satisfying, colorful weeknight meal.
Sole is a mild, lean white fish that is easy on the kidneys and simple to prepare. Paired with fresh green beans and rice, this is a balanced, nourishing plate that feels like a real meal without being heavy. Perfect for those evenings when you want something wholesome without a lot of fuss.
Meal prep meets delicious! This layered mason jar salad is full of fresh vegetables, olives, and a light Greek dressing and it stays crisp in the fridge for days. It's a convenient, kidney-friendly lunch option that makes healthy eating genuinely easy during a busy week.
📲 Book Your Appointment
Have questions about your kidney health, blood pressure, blood sugar, or anything else? That's exactly what we're here for. At NiuOla Health, you never have to figure things out alone.
👉 Text us at 360-382-2762 to book your appointment. We'd love to see you!
Whether it's routine labs, a wellness check-in, or just a question you've been meaning to ask, reach out. No question is too small.
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And if this newsletter was helpful to you, please pass it along to a friend or family member who might benefit. Good health information is always worth sharing and you never know whose life it might touch. 💚
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This newsletter is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. © 2026 NiuOla Health. All rights reserved.