1. Managing Potassium: Potassium helps maintain heart and muscle function, but too much can be very harmful if kidney function is impaired. It should be noted that potassium levels are usually to be watched in the later stages of kidney disease and are not normally an issue in the beginning. If you have kidney disease and are finding that your levels are high it is suggested that you speak to your doctor about other possible causes before changing your diet.
Some of the most common causes of high potassium include: constipation, high blood glucose levels, some medications, herbal and vitamin supplements, missing dialysis or not enough dialysis time, high acid levels in the blood, muscle breakdown and rapid weight loss, or exercising before a blood test.
Some quick tips to limit potassium food intake include reducing potassium chloride which is sometimes used instead of salt, reducing unhealthy processed snack foods like chocolate, chips, or sausage rolls, reducing large dairy and meat servings. Also, try to just drink water. Individuals do not need to limit all foods containing potassium, especially healthy foods. Fruits, vegetables, wholegrain, legumes, nuts, and seeds contain potassium. It is best to discuss with your personal dietitian about more of these details.
Some other aspects to consider:
2. Manage Sodium Levels: Sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and fluid retention, both of which can exacerbate kidney disease. Reducing sodium intake involves limiting processed foods, using herbs and spices for flavouring.
3. Regulate Phosphorus: Elevated phosphorus levels can lead to bone and heart issues. Many dairy products and processed foods contain high levels of phosphorus. It does not mean that these options should be avoided but they may need to be limited or a phosphate binder may be required.
4. Stay Hydrated, but Wisely: Fluid intake needs vary based on kidney function. While staying hydrated is important, those with advanced kidney disease might need to restrict fluid intake to prevent excess fluid buildup.
Ultimately, working with a dietitian who specialises in kidney health can provide a personalised approach, ensuring nutritional needs are met while managing kidney disease effectively. Proper diet, combined with medical treatment, can significantly improve quality of life and overall health outcomes.