Challenges in a renal diet - A nephrologist's view

1. Challenges in a renal diet - A nephrologist's view Definition of a renal diet A renal diet is one intended for individuals who have kidney problems, known as chronic kidney disease. Individuals who are getting dialysis have different nutritional needs than those who are not going to dialysis. Often patients on dialysis need a regular diet, no-added-salt (NAS) diet, consistent carbohydrate diet, or some combination. Many people living with kidney disease feel that the renal diet is the most difficult part of treatment. Managing a renal diet can be challenging for a number of reasons: There is no standard “kidney diet” –it’s complicated and it changes over time depending on kidney function; Many people need to balance two or more diets such as a diabetic diet and/or a heart healthy diet along with a renal diet and they can often disagree; and, The diet can be really limited, especially if you have food allergies, intolerances and/or restrictions; and, Many of the guidelines and suggestions for healthy eating no longer apply when you’re following a renal diet and you may need to avoid some fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The main differences between a regular diet and a renal diet: A renal diet usually is lower in protein foods (meats, poultry, fish, dairy, dried beans and peas, nuts, and nut butters): Too much protein may speed up a decrease in kidney function, so limiting protein can help keep a patient healthy longer. In most cases, patients on dialysis need more protein, not less.

2. Protein restrictions are for individuals who are in earlier stages of kidney disease. Portions of protein foods are smaller. The renal diet can also have a big impact on your quality of life and your social activities: Grocery shopping, label reading and preparing renal friendly meals can seem like a full time job; It can be difficult to eat out and still control your sodium, potassium, phosphorous and protein intake; Friends and family may not know or understand what you can eat; and, You may miss some of your favourite foods and feel left out of holiday meal traditions and celebrations. Meal preparation for those on renal diets: Follow your menus. Serve the right portion sizes, which are smaller for some foods, such as meat and milk. Use correct scoop sizes when serving. Use slotted spoons and drain all excess liquid from vegetables and canned fruit. Use recipes for renal diet food preparation. Do not add extra salt or ingredients that are not listed in the recipe.