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Diet and Nutrition

Personalized nutrition counseling for dialysis patients that protects fluid and mineral balance. Potassium, phosphorus and salt management is planned with our dietitian.

Personalized Planning
Regular check-ups Follow-up
Fluid and mineral balance Focus

What Is Diet and Nutrition for Dialysis Patients?

For dialysis patients, nutrition plays a critical role in the success of treatment and in improving overall health. It is important to maintain the balance of fluid and minerals such as potassium, phosphorus and sodium that accumulate in the body. For this reason, patients may need to avoid certain foods or eat them in limited amounts. Protein-rich diets are recommended to prevent excessive protein loss and keep energy levels high. However, every individual’s needs are different, so it is essential to plan your diet under the guidance of a dietitian or nephrologist.

Fluid Restrictions in Dialysis

Dietitian for Dialysis Patients

Why is protein intake important for dialysis patients?

Is this treatment right for you? Our specialist physicians will assess your case and decide on the best method together with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about Diet and Nutrition

If you can’t find the answer you are looking for, you can ask our team directly.

All questions

Answers are for general information only; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

Why should dialysis patients limit their fluid intake?

Excessive fluid intake can increase the workload on the heart in dialysis patients and raise the risk of high blood pressure and edema. That is why keeping fluid intake under control is essential.

Which foods are high in phosphorus, and why should you be careful?

Phosphorus is high in dairy products, nuts and some meat products. Excessive phosphorus intake can harm bone health and lead to a calcium–phosphorus imbalance.

Why should salt intake be limited for dialysis patients?

Excessive salt intake can cause fluid to build up in the body and raise blood pressure. This can pose a risk to heart and kidney health in dialysis patients.

Why can potassium be dangerous for dialysis patients?

Excessive potassium intake can cause heart rhythm disorders. For this reason, consumption of foods high in potassium should be limited.

Why is the nutrition plan individual for dialysis patients?

Every dialysis patient’s kidney function, general health and lifestyle are different. Nutrition plans should therefore be tailored to individual needs.

How much fluid can a dialysis patient drink per day?

The general approach is a fluid target calculated by adding about 500–750 ml to your daily urine output. However, this amount is individual and is determined by your physician.

The fluid contained in foods such as soup, yogurt and fruit is also included in this calculation. Excessive weight gain between sessions puts strain on blood pressure and the heart.

How much protein should a dialysis patient eat?

Because some protein is lost during dialysis, dialysis patients usually need more protein. The daily amount is individual; your dietitian and physician determine it according to your blood values.

Which foods should I avoid?

Foods high in potassium and phosphorus should be carefully limited: bananas, apricots, dried fruit, potatoes, nuts, processed meat products and cola drinks are among the main ones.

Reducing salt is also critical for controlling blood pressure and edema. Our dietitian prepares a personalized program for you.

How should I eat fruit and vegetables?

Many fruits and vegetables contain potassium. Chopping vegetables into small pieces, soaking them in water and discarding the cooking water can reduce potassium. Plan with your dietitian which fruits you can eat and in what amounts, according to your blood values.

How can I cope with thirst?

Reducing salt significantly reduces thirst. Using small cups, sucking ice chips, rinsing your mouth with cool water and spitting it out, and chewing sugar-free gum can also help.

What do phosphate binders do?

These medications reduce the absorption of phosphorus from food in the intestine and are usually taken with meals. Your physician decides which medication to use, at what dose and when; do not change it yourself.

What can I use instead of salt?

Lemon, vinegar, garlic, onion and spices such as thyme, mint and red pepper flakes add flavor to meals. Ready-made “salt substitutes” usually contain a lot of potassium; do not use them without consulting your physician.

What should I pay attention to when eating out?

Choose low-salt dishes, ask for sauces on the side, and stay away from processed meat products, pickles and instant soups. Include drinks when planning your daily fluid allowance.

I have diabetes. How should I eat?

In dialysis patients with diabetes, blood sugar as well as fluid, potassium and phosphorus balance are monitored together. It is important that your nutrition plan is personalized together with your physician and dietitian.

Can I take vitamin supplements?

Because some vitamins are lost during dialysis, your physician may recommend specific supplements for you. However, many vitamins and herbal products are not suitable for kidney patients; do not use any supplement without consulting your physician.