People with compromised kidney function must adhere to a renal or kidney diet to cut down on the amount of waste in their blood. Wastes in the blood come from food and liquids that are consumed. When kidney function is compromised, the kidneys do not filter or remove waste properly. If waste is left in the blood, it can negatively affect a patient’s electrolyte levels.
A renal diet is one that is low in sodium, phosphorous, and protein. A renal diet also emphasizes the importance of consuming high-quality protein and usually limiting fluids. Some patients may also need to limit potassium and calcium. Every person’s body is different, and therefore, it is crucial that each patient works with a renal dietitian work to come up with a diet that is tailored to the patient’s needs.
Sodium
What is Sodium, and what is its role in the body?
Sodium is a mineral found in most natural foods. Most people think of salt and sodium as interchangeable. Salt, however, is actually a compound of sodium and chloride. Foods we eat may contain salt, or they may contain sodium in other forms. Processed foods often contain higher levels of sodium due to added salt.
Sodium is one of the body’s three major electrolytes (potassium and chloride are the other two). Electrolytes control the fluids going in and out of the body’s tissues and cells. Sodium contributes to:
- Regulating blood pressure and blood volume
- Regulating nerve function and muscle contraction
- Regulating the acid-base balance of blood
- Balancing how much fluid the body keeps or eliminates
Potassium
What is Potassium and its role in the body?
Potassium is a mineral found in many of the foods we eat and is also found naturally in the body. Potassium plays a role in keeping the heartbeat regular and the muscles working correctly. Potassium is also necessary for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the bloodstream. The kidneys help to keep the right amount of potassium in your body, and they expel excess amounts into the urine.
Protein
Protein is not a problem for healthy kidneys. Normally, protein is ingested, and waste products are created, which in turn are filtered by the nephrons of the kidney. Then, with the help of additional renal proteins, the waste turns into urine. In contrast, damaged kidneys fail to remove protein waste, and it accumulates in the blood.
The proper consumption of protein is tricky for Chronic Kidney Disease patients as the amount differs with each stage of the disease. Protein is essential for tissue maintenance and other bodily roles, so it is important to eat the recommended amount for the specific stage of disease, according to your nephrologist or renal dietician.
Fluids
Fluid control is important for patients in the later stages of Chronic Kidney Disease because normal fluid consumption may cause fluid buildup in the body, which could become dangerous. People on dialysis often have decreased urine output, so increased fluid in the body can put unnecessary pressure on the person’s heart and lungs.
A patient’s fluid allowance is calculated on an individual basis, depending on urine output and dialysis settings. It is vital to follow your nephrologist’s/nutritionist’s fluid intake guidelines.
To control fluid intake, patients should:
- Do not drink more than what your doctor orders
- Count all foods that will melt at room temperature (Jell-O®, popsicles, etc.)
- Be cognizant of the number of fluids used in cooking
