Kidneys are two bean shaped organs present near the middle of the back, just below the rib cage. They play an important role in the removal of body's metabolic waste and extra water in the form of urine. However, damage to kidneys may lead to kidney, or renal, disease, which may make it difficult for the body to get rid of its waste. Diabetes, high blood pressure and genetics are some of the major risk factors for renal diseases. Apart from surgery, dialysis and medications, certain diet changes may help manage the condition.
Low Protein Diet
Diets low in protein help decrease the amount of waste produced in the body; hence, patients with renal diseases are recommended to limit their protein content to 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, especially before dialysis. In fact, reducing protein intake in patients with chronic kidney disease reduces the occurrence of renal failure by 32 percent, as compared with unrestricted protein intake, according to information published by Fouque D et al. in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews in March 2009. Hence, it is important to talk to a health care provider or a dietitian before deciding the amount of meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products that can go in a patient's daily meal.
Minerals
Renal failure often leads to increased levels of phosphorous in the body, which in turn decreases the levels of calcium in the blood. Low levels of calcium may causes the body to pull calcium from the bones and make them weaker and more prone to fractures. MedlinePlus, therefore, recommends limiting the intake of phosphorous-rich foods such as dairy products and substituting them with fruits and vegetables. Calcium and vitamin D supplements may also be needed to strengthen the bones.
Limiting the sodium intake, according to Drugs.com, may also be beneficial to patients with renal diseases, as it may help control the blood pressure and reduce the workload of kidneys. Some renal disease patients may have high levels of other minerals such as potassium in their blood and may need to limit them. A health care provider can assess and design a diet based on individual needs.
Fluids
Patients in the early stages of renal disease do not need to limit their fluid intake. Merck Manuals Online Medical Library recommends restricted water intake only if the blood sodium concentrations are very low. Patients with severe kidney failure who are on dialysis may have to limit their fluid intake to avoid fluid build up in the body between dialysis sessions.
Carbohydrates and Fats
Carbohydrates and fats are good sources of energy and may be used to substitute the calories from reduced protein intake. However, it is best to use only monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats such as olive oil, canola oil and safflower oil, to avoid plaque build up in the arteries. Overweight or diabetic patients should avoid foods rich in processed and simple sugars and focus on whole grain, high fiber foods.
References
- "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews"; Low protein diets for chronic kidney disease in non diabetic adults; Fouque D and Laville M; March 2009
- MedlinePlus: Diet - Chronic kidney diseases
- Drugs.com: Renal Failure Diet
- Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Chronic Kidney Disease
