Diet and Nutrition

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.