Nutrition After a Kidney Transplant

It's important to maintain a healthy diet after any surgery, especially an organ transplant, such as a kidney transplant. Wounds need proper nutrition to help them heal, and the side effects of postsurgery medications may pose a challenge. A good diet is important for a speedy recovery.

Protein

• The first month after surgery is a very important time for the healing process. Make sure you get enough protein and calories to help the surgical wounds heal properly. Protein is also important for muscle development if you're on the medication prednisone. Eat foods high in protein, such as meat, fish, dairy, eggs, nuts, beans and tofu.

Sugar

• Some postsurgery medications may decrease your body's ability to use blood sugar as energy, causing high glucose levels, a condition known as hyperglycemia. If you're taking steroid medications, it's important to maintain a low-sugar, low-carbohydrate diet. If you do develop hyperglycemia, your doctor puts you on a special diet.

Sodium

• Prednisone and other medications can increase sodium and water retention in your body and cause high blood pressure. Restrict your intake of sodium by avoiding foods containing salt. Also, avoid adding salt to your food when cooking at home.

Potassium

• Certain medications may increase the potassium levels in your blood, and others may lower the levels of potassium. Speak with your doctor about the side effects of your particular medications. If you need to avoid high-potassium foods, those include dried fruits, oranges and their juice, tomatoes and their juice, avocados, melons, bananas, nectarines, leafy greens, potatoes, dried beans and peas, dairy, nuts and chocolate.

Long-Term Issues

• Many transplant patients, over time, experience weight gain and high cholesterol as a result of steroids and other medications. It's important to follow a healthy diet low in fat and cholesterol and engage in regular exercise.