Kidney Dialysis Nutrition

Proper nutrition is vital for a person on kidney dialysis. Dialysis is ordered when a person's kidneys are not removing all the waste and fluids from the blood and body. But dialysis alone does not clear all of the toxins out of the body and waste products build up between dialysis sessions. Making sure enough protein is eaten and staying away from certain foods can increase the patient's health and feeling of well-being. Proper nutrition limits complications of end stage kidney disease. Special diets are often required for dialysis patients and their intake of liquids is often limited.

Getting the Guidelines

• Talk to your physician, a dietitian at your kidney dialysis center or a representative of the National Kidney Foundation to make sure you understand the do's and don'ts of nutrition while on dialysis. Don't be afraid to ask questions. There is a lot going on in your life right now. You are not always going to hear everything clearly. Make sure you--and any meal preparers in your home--know what foods you can and can't eat.

Protein and Sodium

• Getting enough protein is important as you go through dialysis. An individual on dialysis should consume at least eight ounces of lean meat, such as chicken, turkey, fish and seafood, per day. Protein assists in repairing damaged tissue and building muscle. Plus, kidney diseases causes protein loss which makes eating an adequate amount of protein vital to the health of the patient. Renal dietitians can provide input on how to get enough protein. Individuals on peritoneal dialysis need to increase their protein intake because protein is lost in discarded peritoneal fluid.

  Also, foods high in sodium, such as fast-food items and lunch meats, can increase blood pressure and water retention, and should be avoided. Limiting salt intake helps maintain fluid balance in individuals receiving dialysis.

  Foods high in potassium and phosphorous should also be avoided. High potassium levels are a frequent problem for individuals on dialysis.

  Phosphorus is also controlled as it is not removed in dialysis treatments. Reducing the intake of dairy products and other foods high in phosphorus are another key dietary step.

  Because of the decline in dairy products, calcium supplements may be ordered by your doctor.

Fluids

• Retained fluids will increase weight gain in between dialysis appointments. Individuals retaining fluids should limit their intake of liquids to 6 to 8 cups per day. Because dialysis patients urinate infrequently, fluids need to be restricted. Excess fluid can build up in the lungs, hearts and ankles.