Foods for Kidney Dialysis

Kidney dialysis is a procedure that removes waste products from the blood when the kidneys have become unable to function properly. Because the kidneys do not function well, waste products can build up in the blood in between dialysis sessions. Eliminating some foods from the diet and adding other foods can help to prevent this buildup of waste products, reducing the workload on the kidneys and allowing dialysis patients to have more energy.

Protein

• Most patients with kidney disease are advised to reduce their protein intake in order to reduce the amount of work the kidneys have to do. However, patients on dialysis must eat a diet rich in protein, which supports muscle growth and tissue repair. The University of Virginia Health System recommends that dialysis patients get 8 ounces of lean protein each day. This protein can be found in foods such as low-fat dairy products, fish, poultry, lean meat, and seafood. Dialysis patients should work with a renal dietitian to determine exactly how much protein is needed during dialysis.

Phosphorus

• Because the kidneys may not be able to eliminate phosphorus from the blood during end stage renal disease, the University of Virginia Health System recommends that dialysis patients avoid foods that are high in phosphorus. These foods include nuts, liver, cola soft drinks, dried beans, and beer. Milk and cheese have some phosphorus, but they can be eaten in moderation. Some dialysis patients may be advised to take phosphate binders. According to Keith Norris, M.D. from the American Association of Kidney Patients, phosphate binders bind with phosphorus that is in the blood and help to remove it from the body through the digestive system.

Potassium

• When kidney function declines, the kidneys are no longer able to control the amount of potassium in the blood. Too much potassium can cause rapid heartbeat, which can lead to a heart attack if not corrected. Dialysis patients must be careful to avoid high potassium foods so that potassium does not build up in the blood. According to the University of Virginia Health System, foods that are high in potassium and should be avoided include bananas, nuts, kiwi, broccoli, dried beans, and greens. Potatoes can be soaked overnight to remove some of the potassium from the skins. Milk and tomatoes also have potassium, but can be eaten in small amounts. Patients who are on peritoneal dialysis may not have to restrict potassium intake.

Sodium

• Eating foods that contain high levels of sodium (salt) can result in high blood pressure and swelling caused by fluid retention. Medical professionals at the University of Virginia Health System advise dialysis patients to avoid foods that are high in sodium including canned soups and vegetables, pickles, bacon, lunch meat, processed cheese, and olives. Dialysis patients are advised to read food packaging and choose only items that have less than 140 mg sodium per serving. Frozen dinners can be eaten provided they have less than 600 mg sodium.