A specific diet for renal disease, also known as kidney disease, depends on the type of kidney disease, the severity, the person's age and other medical conditions. Since many factors are considered, it is important to consult a licensed dietitian, physician or other qualified health care provider to optimize your diet. Nutrition's affect on kidney disease has been extensively studied and is based on evidence published in peer-reviewed scientific reports.
Protein
The "Primer on Kidney Diseases" published by Dr.T.A. Ikizler in 2005 recommends 0.8 to 1 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day of protein in chronic kidney disease. In dialysis, this may be increased to 1.2 to 1.3 g/kg per day. Many studies in animals and several smaller studies in animals have associated lower protein intake with decreased progression of some forms of kidney disease. A 2006 review in the "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews" concluded that decreasing protein intake in people with chronic kidney disease reduces the occurrence of death from kidney failure by about 30 percent compared to higher or unrestricted protein intake. The optimal level of protein intake was not confirmed in the studies.
Fluids
The "Primer on Kidney Diseases" recommends up to 3 L of fluid in chronic kidney disease and generally 0.75 to 1.5 L of fluid per day for those on dialysis. This depends, however, on how much is tolerated and should be individualized with the guidance of a physician.
Fiber, Minerals and Vitamins
For those with chronic kidney disease, "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine" by Anthony Fauci M.D. recommends less than 2,000 mg of sodium per day, 40 to 70 mEq of potassium, 1,400 to 1,600 mg of calcium, 600 to 800 mg of phosphorus, 15 mg of zinc, 10 to 18 mg of iron and 200 to 300 mg of magnesium per day.
Fat and Carbohydrates
The "Primer on Kidney Diseases" recommends 30 to 40 percent of calories be derived from fat and the rest from carbohydrates. This is for both those with chronic kidney disease and those in kidney failure who are on dialysis, but will vary according to the individual's needs and condition.
References
- "Primer on Kidney Diseases"; T.A. Ikizler; 2005
- "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews"'; Low protein diets for chronic kidney disease in non diabetic adults.; Fouque et al; 2006
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine"; Anthony S Fauci, et al.; 17th Ed 2008
- "UpToDate"; Overview of the management of chronic kidney disease in adults; Post et al; 2011
