- Following the renal diet helps people with chronic kidney disease slow the progression to end-stage renal failure and improve kidney functioning.
- The renal diet must be developed and monitored by your doctor or a dietician.
- Standard guidelines include limiting sodium, potassium, protein, and phosphorous.
- Limiting fluid intake is also sometimes necessary.
The renal diet is for people with compromised kidney function, usually due to chronic kidney disease. The condition most often affects people with high blood pressure or diabetes.
Around 37 million American adults have chronic kidney disease. Unfortunately, approximately 40% of people with severe kidney problems aren’t aware they have them. Symptoms may include itching, decreased urination, or swelling of the feet and ankles. Muscle aches, unexplained fatigue, and sleep problems are also potential signs of chronic kidney disease.
If you’re diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, your doctor will likely prescribe medications, monitoring, and a renal diet as courses of treatment.
What Is the Purpose of the Renal Diet?
The renal diet aims to reduce waste levels in the bloodstream. When kidney function has been compromised, waste isn’t filtered as effectively. Any waste that’s allowed to build up in the bloodstream can negatively affect electrolyte levels.
Electrolytes are minerals that are essential for your body to function properly and significant health issues can arise from an electrolyte imbalance. For example, electrolyte imbalances can result in heart problems, bone deterioration, and new-onset seizures.