It isn't uncommon for doctors and dietitians to recommend dietary changes in people with kidney problems, such as kidney disease or kidney failure. Impaired or damaged kidneys aren't able to remove all the waste, fluids, potassium, sodium and other minerals from the bloodstream as they would normally. This can lead to serious complications, including high blood pressure, pulmonary edema, hyperkalemia, pericarditis and end-stage kidney disease.
Protein
One of the main components to a diet plan for kidney patients is protein. The amount of protein you should eat depends on the health of your kidneys. In early stages of kidney disease, your dietitian may recommend limiting your protein intake to save the remaining function of these organs, explains the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Instead, fruits, vegetables and grains make up the majority of your diet.
Once dialysis is required, your protein intake changes. Foods high in protein are often recommended for every meal, such as fish, poultry, pork, eggs and even red meat. The National Institutes of Health estimates that people on dialysis require anywhere between 8 and 10 oz. of foods high in protein a day.
Phosphorus
According to the Mayo Clinic, the impaired function of the kidneys may require you to limit your intake of phosphorus to no more than 800 to 1,000 mg a day. This is often difficult to do since most foods contain phosphorus. However, some foods contain more of this mineral than others, so you may need to reduce your consumption of whole grains, dairy, legumes and certain vegetables, such as corn, peas, broccoli, mushrooms, spinach, artichokes and asparagus. Organ meat, walleye and pollock are also high in phosphorus.
Potassium
Since impaired kidneys aren't able to regulate potassium levels in the blood, you may need to limit your intake of this mineral as well, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Dietitians often suggest choosing low potassium fruits and vegetables, such as apples, peaches, pears, carrots, peppers and onions, over high potassium foods, such as bananas, oranges, kiwis, asparagus, potatoes and tomatoes.
Sodium
Like phosphorus and potassium, sodium intake is also reduced with kidney disease, kidney failure and other renal disorders. The kidneys aren't able to remove sodium from the bloodstream, which can elevate your blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke. Most convenience and frozen foods are relatively high in salt or sodium, so look for foods labeled low-sodium, sodium-free, reduced sodium and no salt added, recommends the National Institutes of Health.
Iron
Most people dealing with renal disorders, especially in their advanced stages, suffer from low iron. Your dietitian may recommend Increasing your intake of foods high in this mineral if it doesn't interfere with other dietary restrictions. Otherwise, you can take a supplement to increase the level of iron in your body.
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