Diet for Both Heart & Kidney Patients

Heart disease and kidney problems go hand in hand. The American Association of Kidney Patients reported that as of 2009, people who have chronic kidney disease have a risk of developing heart problems that is up to 20 times higher than for those without chronic kidney disease. A diet that works well with both conditions thus is vital to help keep kidney and heart patients as healthy as they can be.

Fats

Avoid a fatty diet. Dr. Mary Enig, an expert in lipid biochemistry, reported that saturated fats are used by the kidneys as an energy source and cushioning. However, high amounts of fat, particularly trans-fat, can cause plaque buildup in and subsequent blockage of arteries. This can raise blood pressure and raise the risk of heart disease.

The American Association of Kidney Patients recommends that no more than 35 percent of a person's diet should be fat. Of this percentage, 10 percent should be of saturated fat, 10 percent should be of polyunsaturated fat and 15 percent should be monounsaturated fat. In general, this means that you should eat fewer red meats and dairy products while increasing the amount of foods like sunflower seeds and seafood. Use vegetable, olive, or peanut oil for cooking and dressings in place of butter.

Protein

Protein is needed by the body to make new cells, and the heart, which is a muscle, is made up largely of protein. When you have kidney problems and are on dialysis, you'll need to increase your protein intake because protein tends to be lost when the peritoneal fluid is lost and because protein tends to be excreted with the urine.

Supplements and Minerals

Salt is bad for kidney and heart patients because it raises blood pressure and because the fluid retained from the salt can build up around the heart. Additionally, when you retain water from eating salt, less fluid is excreted by the kidneys and bladder, leading to decreased kidney function. You thus should try to lower your salt intake. Low-fat foods that are naturally high in fiber and which are natural diuretics (such as asparagus) can help with reversing fluid retention from too much salt. At the same time, you will need to limit the amount of phosphorus and potassium you ingest. People with poor kidney function cannot remove enough of these substances from the blood, which has a negative impact on the heart. Limit your intake of phosphorus and potassium by being mindful of how many dairy products you have in your diet.

Dialysis and diuretics can remove vital minerals and nutrients from your body, so if you are to this point, then you should speak to your doctor about taking supplements in addition to eating a low-fat diet. You can decrease the need for supplements by making sure to consume a wide variety of foods.