Kidney Deficiency Diet

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is important for everyone, but it is especially important if you suffer from kidney function deficiency because the kidneys are responsible for maintaining your body's concentration of vitamins and minerals. If your kidneys aren't functioning at optimal levels, your diet will become a huge factor in maintaining systemic health. Diet will vary depending on the stage of kidney disease. There are a few general tips to follow such as balancing important nutrients including sodium, phosphorus, calcium, and potassium.

Balancing Sodium in the Diet

If your kidneys aren't working well, sodium and fluid can build up in your body, causing high blood pressure and swelling. It is important to limit your intake of sodium. This goes beyond cutting back on salt. Avoid overly processed foods, which are generally packed with sodium and other preservatives. Canned foods, ready-to-eat sauces and processed meats are examples of foods to avoid. Use spices and herbs to add flavor to your meals. Turmeric, garlic, ginger, basil, mint, chives, tarragon, onions, paprika, parsley, pepper, lemon juice, and rosemary are all good options. Some of them are even rich in nutrients. Lemon is a great source of vitamin C, and parsley is loaded with vitamin A.

Balancing Phosphorus and Calcium in the Diet

If you have kidney disease, you may have trouble excreting excess phosphorus from your body. When phosphorus builds up in the blood, levels of calcium drop. Your body then takes the calcium it needs from your bones, thus compromising bone health. Foods that contain large amounts of phosphorus include dairy products, nuts, dried beans, and dark beverages such as colas, beer, and cocoa.

Balancing Potassium in the Diet

Potassium levels also need to be carefully monitored. Your doctor will help you determine this since you may need more or less depending on your condition. Potassium-rich foods include dairy products, bananas, melons, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, dried fruits, nuts, avocados, and deep-colored and leafy green vegetables. Foods rich in protein such as beef, pork, and poultry also have high potassium content.

Supplements

If you suffer from kidney deficiency, talk to your doctor before taking any supplemental vitamins and minerals. Herbs and other alternative treatments should also be discussed with your doctor beforehand. Some supplements have additives that can cause significant harm to a person suffering from kidney disease.

Keeping a Food Journal

Your doctor or nutritionist may ask you to keep a food journal. Simply pick your start day and write down every item you eat and drink along with the estimated quantities. Also write down what time you ate and how you feel. It's especially important to make note of feeling unusually tired or lightheaded. A food journal will help your doctor determine your calorie and nutrient intake and help you establish how different foods make you feel.