Chronic Renal Failure Diet, Dietary Supplements

Renal failure occurs when the kidneys cannot remove the waste matter that accumulates in the bloodstream. This waste comes from the food and drinks we consume. Chronic renal failure dietary guidelines are provided by the doctor depending on the stage of the condition and extent of kidney damage. In the last stages of chronic renal failure, dialysis is done so that the waste from the blood can be removed with the help of a machine. Chronic renal failure may occur due to other medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

A chronic renal failure diet plan helps to regulate the intake of protein and phosphorus through the diet. The consumption of sodium must also be restricted. Chronic renal failure dietary control helps to reduce the waste produced by the body and also enables the kidneys to function better. This helps to slow down the progression of the disease. Chronic renal failure diet restrictions may have to be modified over time as the state of health changes. In case of other health problems, there may also have to be additional changes to the diet. Chronic renal failure dietary treatment is an essential part of recovery and hence must be followed carefully.

Chronic Renal Failure Foods

Chronic renal failure foods which must be limited in the diet include those that are high in protein. Reducing the intake of protein helps to lower the levels of waste material in the blood and allows the kidney to perform better. Foods that are rich in protein such as dairy products, poultry and meat should be eaten in restricted quantities. The chronic renal failure protein diet should not contain too many of these foods. Your doctor will advise you regarding the amount of protein that should be consumed on a daily basis. Chronic renal failure foods to avoid are also those which are rich in phosphorus. When there is loss of kidney function and kidney damage, the extra amounts of phosphorus in the blood cannot be removed. This leads to loss of calcium from the bones. Foods that contain high levels of phosphorus include nuts, peas, beans and dairy foods. Phosphorus is also contained in colas and cocoa. Individuals with chronic renal failure should also limit their intake of sodium. This is especially important in case there are other health problems such as high blood pressure or fluid accumulation in the body. Foods that are rich in sodium include processed meats, canned goods, table salt and salted snacks. Some individuals may have high levels of potassium in the blood and in such cases the diet must also restrict the consumption of potassium rich foods such as certain fruits and vegetables. High levels of potassium are revealed through blood testing.

Chronic Renal Failure Nutrition

Chronic renal failure nutritional requirements may change with time depending upon how the kidneys are functioning. Kidney function is monitored based on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). The GFR is estimated after a blood test which evaluates creatinine. The individual’s age, sex and body size is also taken into consideration. In case the condition progresses and loss of kidney function continues to take place, the GFR will reduce further. In such cases, the nutritional intake will have to be altered and the diet has to be adjusted to the suit the body’s changing requirements. In case there is need of a dialysis or kidney transplant eventually, the diet must also take that into consideration. Doctors usually refer patients to a registered dietician who can provide helpful advice on chronic renal failure nutrition.

Individuals with chronic renal failure must get an adequate amount of calories through the diet as they provide the body with energy and also enable the body to utilize protein for muscle and tissue building. The diet for chronic renal failure restricts the intake of protein and this may also affect the calorie intake. Therefore to prevent chronic renal failure nutritional problems, the extra calories must be obtained from other types of foods. A dietician can help patients to plan their meals so that they are able to meet their daily calorie requirements. Usually patients are advised to consume more simple carbohydrates such as honey, jam and jellies. Calories can also be obtained from fats such as olive or canola oil. Those with diabetes should also discuss with their dietician ways to keep blood glucose levels in control. In order to check if a patient is eating the correct quantities of protein and calories, certain tests may be performed. These tests are also done in case the disease becomes aggravated. Dieticians often advise patients to maintain a food diary in which they can keep a tract of what they eat on a daily basis. To monitor protein levels, a serum albumin test is done. If the results are too low, then the intake of protein or calories must be increased. Another way to check if an individual is eating properly is to perform the normalized protein nitrogen appearance which checks the protein balance.
Children with chronic kidney disease tend to have poor appetites and this may result in weak immunity and growth problems. Chronic renal failure nutrition in children therefore must be focused on obtaining the right amount of calories each day. In case of infants and older children who are unable to eat properly, feeding tubes may be used. Individuals who are unable to receive sufficient vitamins and minerals through the diet may have to take special supplements. Chronic renal failure nutritional supplements help to supply the body with a variety of vitamins and minerals which promote good health.

Submitted on July 5, 2011