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Reality Star Bethenny Frankel Reveals Kidney Disease Diagnosis
Frankel urges fans to get tested regularly after learning of her stage 3A chronic kidney disease.
Feb. 26, 2026 at 11:15pm
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Reality star Bethenny Frankel, 55, has shared emotional details of her recent diagnosis of stage 3A chronic kidney disease. In an Instagram video, Frankel revealed that her doctor found a liver nodule during a sonogram and emphasized the importance of staying on top of medical tests and being aware of how supplements can affect the body differently for each person. Frankel said she is making dietary changes, like avoiding ice cream and ibuprofen, and focusing on drinking more water as part of her treatment.
Why it matters
Frankel's openness about her diagnosis highlights the importance of regular medical check-ups and being proactive about one's health, especially for those with a public platform who can encourage their fans to do the same. Chronic kidney disease is a serious condition that affects millions, and Frankel's story can help raise awareness and inspire others to prioritize their well-being.
The details
According to Frankel, her doctor told her that her kidneys had 'some damage,' likely due to an 'anaphylactic allergy episode years ago.' While the doctor said her condition is not yet at the medication point, he emphasized the importance of staying hydrated and monitoring any supplements she takes, as some like turmeric and moringa can affect kidney patients differently. Frankel also revealed that the doctor found a liver nodule during her sonogram, underscoring the need for comprehensive medical testing.
- Frankel shared the details of her diagnosis in an Instagram video posted on February 19, 2026.
The players
Bethenny Frankel
A 55-year-old reality TV star known for her appearances on The Real Housewives of New York.
Cleveland Clinic
A nonprofit academic medical center that provided information about the stages of chronic kidney disease.
What they’re saying
“He said that I actually have stage 3A chronic kidney disease, which is right in the middle.”
— Bethenny Frankel, Reality TV Star
“He really emphasized with big wellness that all the different supplements, whether it's for your health or for some health benefit or a call out, that people are just running to do everything, and that you have to make sure that your doctor knows about it, because some things can affect different parts of your body on different people differently.”
— Bethenny Frankel, Reality TV Star
What’s next
Frankel said she will return to her doctor in a couple of months to get tested again, as her condition can fluctuate.
The takeaway
Frankel's openness about her chronic kidney disease diagnosis serves as an important reminder for everyone to prioritize regular medical check-ups and be proactive about their health, especially when it comes to monitoring any underlying conditions and being cautious about supplement use.
