The kidneys are responsible for maintaining the body's fluid balance and filtering waste products from the blood. When kidney function declines, a special diet is necessary to control the amount of fluid and waste products that the kidneys must regulate. This is known as the renal diet. The goals of the renal diet are to reduce the workload of the kidneys and provide increased energy to people with kidney disease.
Fluid
According to nephrologists from the Medical College of Wisconsin, fluid restriction may become necessary if kidney function declines. On the renal diet, fluid restriction means restricting beverages and foods that melt into a liquid. This includes ice cream, gelatin, ice cubes and sherbet. Drinking only when thirsty and eating less to prevent thirst can help to prevent the intake of too much fluid. The amount of fluid that is acceptable is determined individually based on kidney function tests and the patient's general health.
Sodium
One of the most common renal diet guidelines is to limit the amount of sodium consumed each day. Physicians from the National Institutes of Health indicate that too much sodium can cause elevated blood pressure and difficulty in controlling fluid levels. Kidney patients may decrease their intake of sodium by avoiding foods that are known to have high sodium levels. Avoid frozen meals, canned soups, caned vegetables, luncheon meats and snack foods. Reduce or eliminate the use of table salt. Use herbs and spices that do not contain sodium to season food and add flavor.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a mineral that is required for healthy teeth, bones, nerves and muscles. According to physicians from the Division of Nephrology at the Medical College of Wisconsin, it is difficult for people with kidney disease to maintain proper levels of phosphorus in the blood. Avoid foods that are high in phosphorus including peanut butter, nuts, sardines, cola soft drinks, ice cream and beer. Acceptable substitutes include non-cola soft drinks, hard candy, broccoli, sherbet, zucchini and nondairy creamers. Eat small servings of foods that are low in phosphorus.
Potassium
Potassium is a mineral that is responsible for keeping the heart functioning properly. Physicians from the Medical College of Wisconsin indicate that the kidneys are responsible for regulating potassium levels, so people with decreased kidney function need to consume less potassium than people with normal kidney function. Avoid high-potassium foods such as bananas, oranges, potatoes, chocolate, prunes, apricots, raisins, tomatoes and cantaloupe. Alternatives that are low in potassium include apples, cucumbers, pears, watermelon, cherries, carrots, green beans and rice.
Protein
Consuming protein puts a lot of stress on the kidneys, so people with decreased kidney function need to limit protein intake. According to the National Institutes of Health, the amount of protein that can be consumed safely will be determined based on the results of kidney function tests and urine tests. Restricting protein can slow the progression of kidney disease, so it is very important to follow this renal diet guideline. Foods high in protein include red meat, nuts, poultry, pork and eggs. Because a low-protein diet can cause deficiencies in calcium, iron, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin and essential amino acids, it is important to consult with a dietitian to determine how to plan a healthy diet that is low in protein and high in other nutrients.
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