Chronic kidney disease can lead to health complications and can be fatal if it progresses to kidney failure. A carefully planned diet provides essential nutrients and reduces the stress on your kidneys, so work with your nutritionist to develop a good plan for your situation. Also, continue to follow your doctor's medical instructions for treating your condition.
Background
Your kidneys help regulate water balance in your body and eliminate waste from metabolism. Chronic kidney disease occurs as your kidneys are less able to perform their regular duties. According to the National Kidney Foundation, the glomerular filtration rate, or GFR, indicates how well your kidneys are functioning, and a lower GFR means lower kidney function. Chronic kidney disease progresses from stage 1, with a GFR of more than 90, through stage 4, with a GFR between 15 and 29. A GFR under 15 indicates kidney failure, which can be fatal. A diet plan for kidney disease aims to slow the progression to stage 4 or failure.
Protein Intake
Healthy kidneys normally eliminate nitrogen and creatinine that result from your body breaking down protein from food. However, extra protein can place a strain on your kidneys if you have kidney disease. The National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases states that reducing the protein in your diet may keep you healthier. Eating more fruit, grains and vegetables, and less meat, eggs and milk keeps your protein down.
Sodium and Potassium
Healthy kidneys can eliminate excess sodium from your body, but in kidney disease, you may retain extra sodium, leading to high blood pressure or uncomfortable swelling. The National Kidney Foundation states that you can eat a low-sodium diet by reducing your consumption of added table salt, processed meats, canned soups and restaurant and fast foods. You may need more or less potassium if you have kidney disease, so talk to your nutritionist about whether you should alter your intake of high-potassium foods such as potatoes, bananas, milk and beans.
Other Nutrients
The National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases warns that you may lose your appetite as your kidney disease progresses, so you may need to make a special effort to eat the calories you need to maintain your health. You may also need to limit your fluid intake to reduce strain on your kidneys and fluid build-up in your body. Monitor your calcium and phosphorus to ensure that you get enough for bone health, but not more than your kidneys can handle, and remember to keep working with your medical team to stay as healthy as possible.
