Diet for Renal Problems

More than 485,000 Americans are being treated for kidney failure, according to 2008 information from the National Kidney Foundation. Chronic renal failure can lead to end stage renal disease for which treatments include dialysis and even kidney transplants. Eating a special diet for renal disease can improve outcomes and delay or prevent rapid decline in renal function.

Definitions

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is defined by a reduced ability of the kidneys to filter waste products from the blood. CKD can result from acute renal failure, in which kidney function abruptly declines or chronic renal failure in which progressive decline occurs. Kidney disease has five stages, which determine how restrictive your diet will be. The final stage of kidney disease is called end stage renal disease and occurs when kidneys are no longer able to filter waste and fluids from the body.

Dietary Changes

Early treatment is essential for CKD and dietary changes are part of the multi-disciplinary treatment plan to prevent common conditions associated with renal disease such as malnutrition and excess weight loss. The overall nutritional aim is to take in enough calories and maintain normal levels of electrolytes and minerals and control fluid. A renal diet is low in sodium, phosphorus and potassium and controls protein.

Foods to Limit

A byproduct of protein consumption is a waste product called urea. In kidney disease, urea is not effectively filtered from the blood. For this reason, protein is restricted during the early stages of kidney disease, but is increased once dialysis has started. Your doctor may also recommend limiting foods high in sodium, such as cured, processed, canned and pickled foods, and using spices to season food instead of salt. Foods high in phosphorus may be restricted and include dairy products, dried beans and peas, nuts, peanut butter and beverages such as dark colas, cocoa and beer. According to the National Kidney Foundation, potassium and fluid are not limited in the early stages of kidney disease, but may become restricted as the disease progresses. Finally, your doctor may also recommend restricting dietary calcium if your blood levels are too high.

Lifestyle Changes

It's important to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet to help maintain lean body mass and promote good health. Do not smoke and aim for a healthy weight since obesity has been linked to a decline in kidney function.

Considerations

Renal diets can be complicated and are dependent on the needs of each individual. Talk to your doctor and a registered dietitian specializing in renal disease to ensure that you are following a diet that is right for you.