How Much Sodium Can You Have Daily When You Are On Dialysis?

If you have kidney failure and need dialysis, eating high-sodium foods can result in thirst and excessive fluid retention. This extra fluid can cause difficult dialysis treatments. To avoid these issues, reduce your sodium intake by evaluating your diet for sources of sodium and making appropriate substitutions.

Sodium and Dialysis

Sodium is a mineral the body needs for fluid and electrolyte balance, blood pressure control, and muscle and nerve function. The body regulates the level of sodium through its excretion and reabsorption, which occurs primarily in the kidneys. People on dialysis have chronic kidney disease and a diminished capacity of their kidneys to excrete excess sodium and fluid. This can result in sodium and fluid retention, which can lead to high blood pressure, edema or swelling, and shortness of breath. These symptoms, aside from making you feel poorly, can also complicate dialysis treatments. Your body may not be able to tolerate the removal of extra fluid, resulting in discomfort during the treatment.

Limiting Salt

To avoid potential problems, it is important to limit sodium intake to 2,000 milligrams daily, recommends the National Kidney Foundation. Because 1 teaspoon of table salt contains 2,300 milligrams of sodium, eliminating added salt is a good way to start lowering sodium intake. Instead of seasoning food with table salt, cook with salt-free herbs and spices, such as lemon pepper on fish or tarragon on poultry dishes. Fresh or dried herbs add variety to meals. Do not use potassium-based salt substitutes, unless instructed by a doctor or dietitian.

Grocery Shopping

Table salt is not the only source of sodium, nor is it the largest. Many foods are high in sodium, such as canned, frozen and convenience items. Foods to avoid include cured meats, deli meats, frozen meals, canned meats, soups, sauces and salted snack foods.
Read labels to compare sodium content and choose the lowest. If a food is labelled as having more than 500 milligrams of sodium per serving, then it is too high to include in a low-sodium diet. Monitor the serving sizes because the sodium content listed is per serving, not the entire package.

Eating Out

Eating at restaurants can be a challenge if you're trying to lower your sodium intake. If possible, be prepared by knowing the menu before arriving at the restaurant. In general, ask that the food be prepared without added salt, monosodium glutamate or soy sauce. Ask for sauces or condiments on the side and use them sparingly. Avoid soups and salty appetizers, such as chips, dips, breaded and deep fried items.
While cooking your own meals with fresh, unprocessed ingredients is the best way to control sodium intake, eating out occasionally is still an option with careful planning and menu selection. Talk to your dietitian at the dialysis clinic for individualized sodium information and meal planning.