Patients with kidney disease may need to follow a specialized diet in order to control symptoms of their disorder. You may need to increase or decrease certain nutrients in your diet to keep you healthy. Your doctor is likely to give you recommendations of foods you can eat based on your condition and the medical treatment you are receiving.
Fruits and Vegetables
The kidneys control the amount of potassium found in the body. If the kidneys are not working properly, you may need to limit your intake of foods high in potassium, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Certain fruits and vegetables such as oranges, kiwis, nectarines, avocados, potatoes and tomatoes are high in potassium. When following a specialized kidney diet, you should replace these items with low potassium options, such as peaches, grapes, pears, melon, broccoli, cabbage, celery, cucumber, squash and peppers.
Healthy Fats
Healthy sources of fats can help kidney patients get the calories that they need, states the National Institutes of Health's MedlinePlus website. Instead of eating foods high in saturated fat, consume meals high in monounsaturated fatty acids. Some examples are olive oil, avocado, canola oil, nuts, fish and seeds. Eat these items in lieu of fried foods, fast food and fatty cuts of meat.
Meats
Before you go through dialysis, you may be asked to control your protein intake. However, after you begin dialysis, your intake of protein should be increased. The protein helps repair muscles and tissues lost during dialysis. Healthy and lean proteins are ideal for a kidney diet. Eat plenty of fish, eggs, beans, tofu, turkey and chicken.
Foods High in Iron
If you have chronic kidney disease, you are at an increased risk of developing anemia, states the National Kidney Foundation. Patients with anemia may experience symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness and irregular heartbeat. Besides supplementation, you can consume iron through food sources. Some possible additions to your diet are fortified cereals, beef, liver, lima beans, kidney beans, poultry and pork.
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