Chronic renal failure, also called chronic kidney disease, is a disorder characterized by the progressive loss of your normal kidney function over time. People with this disorder commonly need to undergo an artificial kidney-cleansing procedure called dialysis. They also need to limit their intake of certain foods that can decrease dialysis effectiveness and contribute to the ongoing effects of renal failure.
Dialysis Basics
When your kidneys are healthy, they continually perform functions that include regulation of blood chemicals, such as bicarbonate and potassium, and the removal of waste byproducts, excess fluids and salt. Because of the damage in their kidneys, people with chronic renal failure permanently rely on external dialysis machines or internal dialysis devices to perform these same functions. However, dialysis is not a perfect process, and some waste products will remain in your system even after you receive a dialysis treatment. These same byproducts can also accumulate in your system between your treatments. Dietary restrictions work hand in hand with dialysis to protect your health.
Phosphorus and Protein
You can worsen renal failure and hinder the effectiveness of dialysis by consuming too much of the mineral phosphorus. Phosphorus-containing foods you will need to restrict in your diet include hard cheese, yogurt and milk. Before you start dialysis, your doctor may also ask you to limit your intake of any food that contains concentrated amounts of protein. However, after dialysis begins, you may need extra protein to make up for any loss of your muscles or other body tissues. In some cases, your doctor may specifically recommend a high-protein diet.
Salt, Sodium and Potassium
To avoid high blood pressure and unwanted fluid retention, people with chronic kidney failure need to strictly limit that intake of salt or sodium. They also need to avoid salt replacement products that contain potassium, which can trigger heartbeat irregularities when present at abnormally high levels. Potassium is also found in abundance in fruits that include oranges, bananas, nectarines, cantaloupe, tomatoes and dried fruits, as well as in vegetables such as squash, potatoes, asparagus, cooked spinach and pumpkin.
Fluids and Carbohydrates
When your renal failure worsens and/or you start dialysis, you will also need to avoid fluid buildup by limiting the amount of fluids you drink each day. In addition to water, common sources of fluids include lettuce, tomatoes, soups, grapes, celery, melons and ice cream. Your doctor will tell you how much of these foods you can safely eat. If you have diabetes or are overweight, your doctor may also ask you to restrict your intake of carbohydrate foods such as grains, vegetables, fruits and bread.
Not all people with serious kidney problems have the same dietary concerns. To learn about your specific risks, ask your doctor and a registered nutritionist for more information on the dietary limitations that apply to your particular case of chronic renal failure.
