Vitamins & Minerals Needed By Dialysis Patients

Kidney disease can alter your body's requirements for vitamins and minerals. Vitamins and minerals are necessary for energy production, healthy tissue and preventing anemia. Dialysis removes crucial vitamins and minerals during processing of circulating blood volume and replacement is necessary with each session. Kidney disease also alters the ability of your body to produce certain vitamins, like vitamin D, which is replaced during dialysis if needed. Some vitamins and minerals are given after dialysis for absorption before the next session.

Water-Soluble Vitamins

Water-soluble vitamins not stored in your body are removed with the dialysis process, especially vitamin B and C and require replacement. Some sources of vitamins and minerals might be excluded from your renal diet and a decreased appetite might limit the amount your able to consume, according to the American Association of Kidney Patients.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Fat-soluble vitamins, especially vitamin A, are not removed by dialysis, but are stored in your fatty tissues. Toxic levels can build up if extra is taken or consumed. Vitamins and minerals are prescription-only for dialysis patients, and you should avoid over-the-counter supplements, according to the University of Michigan Health System.

Sodium

Sodium, a mineral, causes increased fluid retention in your tissues that leads to elevated blood pressure, according to the University of Virginia Health System. The result makes your heart and kidneys work harder. Avoid foods like processed meats, table salt and canned foods that contain sodium and salt substitutes that contain potassium.

Potassium

Potassium has dangerous side effects when blood levels are too high or too low, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Side effects can include leg weakness, elevated heart rate, and cause cardiac arrest. Avoid foods high in potassium like kiwis, dried fruits and bananas. Potassium can be lowered in some vegetables, like potatoes, by peeling the skin and soaking in water.

Phosporus

Phosphorus can cause calcium to be lost from bone when too much phosphorus remains in the blood. Increased phosphorus can lead to fractures, itching skin and blocked vessels from a build-up of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. Phosphorus is controlled by a medication called a phosphate binder, which prevents calcium loss.