By Fiona Chin N.D. 
The Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) and Kidney Health: What You Need to Know
The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is one of the most powerful hormone networks regulating blood pressure, fluid balance, and kidney health. But when the RAAS system becomes dysregulated due to chronic stress, poor sleep, or nutritional imbalances, it can silently elevate blood pressure, strain kidney function, and accelerate the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
In this video, kidney health expert Lindsey Zirker unpacks how the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) works, why it matters in CKD, and how small daily habits can throw it off balance. She explains how stress hormones drive RAS activation, how this impacts the kidneys, and why restoring balance to the RAAS system is critical for long-term kidney protection and blood pressure control.
You’ll learn practical strategies for supporting the renin pathway using nutrition, fasting, hormone regulation, and lifestyle interventions. Lindsey also discusses the deeper connection between the RAS system, macro and micronutrients, and chronic stress and how these factors influence kidney outcomes.
Whether you’re living with kidney disease or supporting someone who is, this video provides essential insights into managing the RAAS system naturally to protect your kidneys and improve overall health.
00:00 Intro
00:20 Lindsey Zirker Introduction
01:44 What is Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS)?
03:41 The RAS Domino Effect: Step-by-Step Hormone Action
09:02 Renin-Angiotensin System RAS & Chronic Stress
16:37 Link Between Renin-Angiotensin System RAS & CKD
22:46 Micronutrients That Support RAS & Kidney Health
31:44 Why RAS and CKD Need a Holistic Treatment Approach?
35:53 How Macros, Fasting, and Hormones Impact CKD
44:01 Key Takeaways for the RAS System & Kidney Disease
47:56 Outro
