Diet for Kidney Diesease

Humans with failing kidneys are in a unique situation. They require the same level of nutrition as others, yet can't withstand the strain that some foods place upon their body's waste-processing plant. Smart physicians and dietitians will devise healthful, individualized eating plans, but there are some basics all patients will want to adhere to.

Individual

• It is impossible, and not very constructive, to build or espouse a one-size-fits-all diet for kidney disease. Your dietary needs are completely specific to your particular kidney disorder as well as the progression, or stage, of the illness.

  A kidney specialist should refer you to a registered dietitian for development of a complete nutritional plan. Many dietitians specialize in kidney disease and understand the importance of balancing kidney-specific approaches. Institutions such as the National Kidney Foundation and the American Association of Kidney Patients also provide, online and otherwise, a variety of nutritional resources and cookbooks for those suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Low-Protein

• Some general dietary restrictions apply across most instances of kidney disease, one of those being a diet low in protein. Waste products from protein place excessive strain on already weakened kidneys. The inability of the body to efficiently process these proteins lends itself to increased fatigue and loss of appetite. However, this does not mean that protein intake should be completely eliminated, says Angelo P. Capozzoli, RD, CSR, LD, president of Southeast Clinical Nutrition Centers, a practice of registered dietitians.

  "Protein restriction, it has been argued, could slow the progression of CKD and help relieve symptoms of advanced CKD known as uremia," notes Cappozzoli. "However, protein restriction can also lead to malnutrition. There's a careful balancing act patients must adhere to. Too much protein can also lead to high levels of phosphorus and potassium, which CKD patients must keep a close eye on."

Adding Soy

• Soy-based food products are an effective means of receiving necessary protein while reducing some of the strain that animal protein places on kidneys. It's not difficult to add soy products to a balanced, kidney-friendly diet. For example, 4 oz. of firm tofu contains 13 g of soy protein; one soy "burger" contains 10 to 12 g of protein; and an 8-oz. glass of plain soy milk contains 10 g of protein.

  A dietitian will help point out the forms of soy that are most beneficial. Tofu, tempeh and soy milk are three soy products most kidney patients can use with little fear of harm. Some other soy products put a strain on the kidneys with their high levels of sodium, potassium and phosphorus.

Sodium & Iron

• Failing kidneys are unable to properly balance levels of water and sodium in the body. This causes swelling, hypertension and fluid buildup in the lungs. In many ways, it's a vicious cycle, for high blood pressure is one of the primary causes of CKD, while the disease, in turn, causes blood pressure to rise even further. A reduction in salt intake is crucial to rebuilding health. As a point of reference, there are 1,000 mg of sodium in every gram of salt. Most healthy diets, especially for kidney patients, recommend well below 2,000 mg of sodium daily.

  Adding extra iron to the diet will often be beneficial for those suffering from CKD. Iron is an important tool in the fight against anemia, a shortage of oxygen-carrying red blood cells that contributes to fatigue and shortness of breath.