Our kidneys filter waste products from our blood. They are also involved in regulating blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and red blood cell production in the body. Build-up of waste products and excess fluid in the body may cause weakness, shortness of breath, lethargy, swelling, and confusion. Inability to remove potassium from the bloodstream may lead to abnormal heart rhythms and sudden death. There are numerous causes of kidney failure, and treatment of the underlying disease may be the first step in correcting the kidney abnormality.
A renal failure diet aims to regulate the waste products in your blood stream by regulating the amount of protein and phosphorus in your diet. You may also have to limit calcium, sodium, and potassium. A regulated diet can help your kidneys to function better and delay total renal failure. Consult a dietitian to assess your condition. Your diet should be constantly updated depending on your changing health condition. Following are some of the general guidelines for kidney patients –
- Make sure that as much of the prescribed protein as possible, comes from protein of high biological value like milk & milk products.
- Include low protein foods in your diet to obtain sufficient calories.
- When sodium is to be restricted, cook food using minimum of salt.
- When potassium is to be restricted avoid citrus fruits and lemon water and most green leafy vegetables must be avoided as all of them are rich in potassium.
- To reduce the potassium content of the diet, vegetables & fruits should be boiled stewed in large quantity of water which should later be discarded.
In the end do not forget the four pillars of a healthy lifestyle – Physical Activity, Proper Sleep, Right Diet and a positive outlook.
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