Nutritional therapy in moderate or severe kidney failure

In severe kidney failure, in addition to moderate amount of protein, there may also be a need to restrict the intake of phosphorus and potassium.

If the kidney failure has progressed to a moderate stage and blood tests show an elevated parathyroid hormone or phosphate level, it is time to start a special diet for kidney patients. The amount of protein remains moderate. If there is no build-up of liquid in the body, drinking just a little bit more than usual is good for the kidneys.

As this diet restricts the use of many essential foods, it must always be started under the guidance of a nutritional therapist. The nutritional therapist will also make sure that the diet is sufficient and diverse enough from a nutritional point of view.

Phosporus restriction

The ability of failing kidneys to remove phosphorus is diminished. The build-up of phosphorus in your body contributes to the narrowing of blood vessels and makes your bones more brittle. To prevent the build-up of phosphorus in your body, you should reduce the amount of it in your food. Key sources of phosphorus include the phosphorus added to food products, wholegrains, dairy products as well as products in the meat group (meat, fish, chicken, egg).

Potassium restriction

If kidney failure has progressed to a more advanced stage, it may become necessary to also restrict the amount of potassium in food. There is a fair amount of potassium in both animal and vegetable foodstuffs. Typical sources of potassium include coffee, 100% fruit juice and potato. The need to cut the potassium intake always depends on the person. Sometimes, just a minor adjustment of the diet, such as replacing some of the daily coffee intake with tea, may suffice.

Dialysis

If the dialysis, which is also called an artificial kidney, is required there will be changes to the diet. The nutritional therapist of your healthcare provider will then provide you with detailed instructions regarding your new diet.

Ruokavalio dialyysissä (PDF, muma.fi, in Finnish)

Nutritional therapy in moderate or severe kidney failure

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