Acute renal failure is a condition that develops quickly, usually over several hours or days. The kidneys are suddenly not able to function properly, causing medical complications, and this situation can become fatal if not treated, says the Mayo Clinic. Nutrition is a component of treatment for renal failure, and is important for your health. Prior to following any nutritional guidelines, it is always best to consult a physician who is knowledgeable about renal health to reduce your risk of developing complications or adverse side effects.
Features
Acute renal disease, also known as acute renal failure (ARF), occurs when the kidneys are temporarily unable to function. In this condition, the kidneys cannot filter wastes from the body, maintain appropriate water and chemical levels in the body or produce urine, according to the Penn State Hershey Medical Center College of Medicine. ARF can occur in any individual at any age due to illness or injury to the kidneys.
Treatment
Treatment for ARF depends on the underlying causes, and sometimes dialysis is necessary. While recovering from ARF or on dialysis, you may have to make some dietary adjustments and follow nutritional guidelines both because your kidneys are not working as they should, as well as the added demands of illness on your body.
Nutrition and Dialysis
The National Kidney Foundation states that, while on dialysis, you may need to restrict fluids because the kidneys cannot excrete the proper amounts of waste materials and fluids from the bloodstream. Reduced kidney function can also impair how the body absorbs vitamins, minerals and nutrients, and monitoring of sodium, potassium and phosphorus intake may be recommended to help keep the body healthy during and after treatment.
Food Guidelines
A dietitian specializing in working with individuals with kidney disease or kidney failure will likely develop a meal plan for patients, but there are several general guidelines you can keep in mind. The National Kidney Foundation states that individuals on dialysis need to consume more protein than they would otherwise. This essential element helps stabilize blood protein levels. Good dietary sources include eggs, chicken, fish and meat. Grains and breads are permitted with no restrictions, unless blood glucose levels need to be controlled. Dairy foods may need to be limited because of the amount of phosphorus they contain, and some vegetables like asparagus, spinach, potatoes and tomatoes should be consumed in moderation because they contain higher levels of potassium; too much potassium while suffering poor kidney function can damage the heart. Salt and foods high in sodium should be avoided or eaten sparingly, according to the National Kidney Foundation.
Warning
If you have acute renal failure, you should not make any dietary changes until speaking with a physician. Nutrition needs may change depending on treatment and response to treatment, and too much of certain nutrients can be harmful and even fatal for individuals with renal failure. Working with a dietitian during and even after treatment for renal failure can help provide you with guidance to maintain optimal health.
