Renal Nutrition Guidelines

Certain people follow renal nutrition guidelines, or a renal diet, to lessen the work load of the kidneys. The word "renal" refers to anything dealing with the kidneys. The kidneys play a critical role in filtering water, protein and minerals. A very delicate balance exists among these nutrients and imbalances among them can create major health problems over time. This is why renal nutrition guidelines must be understood and followed.

Fluids

Often, a fluid restriction is recommended for people who are undergoing dialysis. Dialysis is needed to assist the kidneys with their job of filtering fluid intake. The degree of fluid restriction depends on how well the kidneys are functioning. One way to determine this is with urine output. If urine output is low, the fluid restriction will be greater, explains RD411.com. A fluid is anything that is liquid or melts at room temperature. Examples include water, tea, milk, ice cream, ice cubes, liquid creamer, coffee and alcohol.

Protein

The reason for needing a renal diet determines if a person needs to eat more or less protein. Kidneys play a role in the elimination of waste products that occur as a result of protein metabolism. If a great deal of protein is lost through the urine, this means the kidneys are not handling elimination of waste products properly. In this case, a protein restriction is needed, according to "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care" by Sylvia Escott-Stump. Otherwise, a high-protein diet is recommended.

Sodium

If a fluid restriction has been prescribed for a patient with kidney issues, sodium will need to be limited as well. This is because foods high in sodium increase thirst. Various sodium restrictions are recommended depending on the individual and will require label-reading to ensure staying below the restriction. Regardless, foods to limit include adobo sauce, fish sauce, corn chips, bacon, bologna, hot dogs, garlic salt, dill pickles and canned soups.

Potassium and Phosphorous

The kidneys function to balance the levels of potassium and phosphorus in the body. When kidneys are not functioning well, these minerals may build up or are used ineffectively causing detrimental health problems. It is especially important for people on dialysis to monitor their intakes of food sources of potassium and phosphorous. The dialysis staff and a dietitian assist with creating specific and individualized guidelines for each patient depending on their levels of potassium and phosphorous, as explained by RD411.com.