Diet on renal patients

Diet is an important consideration for those with impaired kidney function. Consultation with a dietician may be helpful to understand what foods may or may not be appropriate.

Since the kidneys cannot easily remove excess water, salt, or potassium, these may need to be consumed in limited quantities. Foods high in potassium include bananas, apricots, and salt substitutes.

Phosphorus is a forgotten chemical that is associated with calcium metabolism and may be elevated in the body in kidney failure. Too much phosphorus can leech calcium from the bones and causeosteoporosis and fractures. Foods with high phosphorus content include milk, cheese, nuts, and cola drinks.



Medications

Medications may be used to help control some of the issues associated with kidney failure.

·Phosphorus-lowering medications (calcium carbonate [Caltrate], calcitriol [Rocaltrol], sevelamer[Renagel])

·Red blood cell production stimulation (erythropoietin, darbepoetin[Aranesp])

·Red blood cell production (iron supplements)

·Blood pressure medications

·Vitamins

Once the kidneys fail completely, the treatment options are limited to dialysis or kidney replacement by transplantation