If you suffer from chronic kidney disease or kidney failure, you may need a specific diet that eases the burden on your kidneys. Your kidneys filter waste from your body; when they don't function properly, fluid and minerals can build-up in your bloodstream, causing serious health complications. It's important to work with your doctor to design a renal diet that works for whatever stage of kidney disease you are in and any other health issues, such as diabetes or high cholesterol levels.
Limited Protein
In the beginning stages of renal failure, you may need to limit your protein intake. The American Association of Kidney Patients suggests that 140-lb. women needs to consume just 4 oz. of protein daily. A 190-lb. man needs just 6 oz. of protein each day. Limiting protein reduces your risk of uremia, a toxic buildup of the byproducts of breaking down protein. With normal kidney function, these byproducts are excreted from your body. With limited kidney function, they can accumulate in your blood, causing headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting. If your kidney disease has progressed and you are receiving dialysis, you may need more protein, as up to 2 oz. of protein can be lost in the dialysis process.
Controlled Fluid Intake
Because your kidneys regulate fluids leaving the body, limiting your fluid intake eases the burden on your kidneys. Too much fluid may lead to swelling and high blood pressure. Try these tips to help control your fluid intake: Don't drink to be social -- only drink when you're truly thirsty; suck on ice chips; brush your teeth four times daily to prevent your mouth from drying out; suck on sugarless hard candy or chew sugar-free gum; ask for child-size beverages when dining out. If you have diabetes, control your blood sugar levels carefully, as hyperglycemia can cause excessive thirst.
Electrolytes
Sodium, potassium and phosphorous are electrolytes that help your body regulate fluid levels. With kidney failure, these electrolytes can accumulate in your blood. Each one has its own serious health consequences. If too much sodium builds up, you may develop high blood pressure and edema -- swelling in your extremities. Look for products that contain less than 100 mg of sodium per serving. Too much potassium can lead to an irregular heartbeat, so choose low-potassium fruits and vegetables such as peaches, pears, apples, grapes, broccoli, eggplant and zucchini. Avoid high-potassium foods such as oranges, bananas, raisins, avocado, tomatoes and squash. Too much phosphorous in your blood can leach calcium from your bones, making them brittle and prone to break. Ironically, many dairy products contain both calcium and phosphorous, so avoid milk, yogurt and cheese. Some dairy products are naturally lower in phosphorous, such as butter and heavy cream, but if you have high cholesterol levels, limit those foods in your diet as well.
Foods to Eat
Planning a renal diet can be complicated -- fluid, protein and electrolytes must be limited. You may be asking yourself "What's left to eat?" Try dairy substitutes, such as rice milk for your breakfast cereal and non-dairy creamer in your coffee or tea. Choose high-quality, iron-rich protein, such as liver, pork, beef and chicken; avoid processed meats which are often high in sodium. Use fresh herbs and dried spices instead of salt to flavor your food. Pay attention to serving sizes -- if you eat three servings of low-potassium cherries, you've probably eaten too much potassium. You may need to work with a dietitian who specializes in renal diets to design the perfect individualized eating plan for you.
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