The treatment of kidney failure : Diet
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Various waste products can build up in your blood. Each kind can have different effects on your health.
Salt can increase blood pressure,so you may be encouraged to reduce salt intake. (Salt also has the effect of increasing thirst, so it makes it more difficult for patients to restrict their fluid intake).
Potassium is a mineral which is found in the cells of body tissue, and any excess would normally be removed by the kidneys. Too high a level of potassium is bad for the heart - in extreme case it may even cause it to stop.
Phosphate is a substance that is widely found in foods. It works very closely with the mineral calcium, and the healthy body keeps these two substances in balance. High phosphate levels may be associated with itch and over the longterm can damage blood vessels.
This is an essential nutrient that enables the body to build muscles. Low levels of protein can lead to fluid retention and to a reduction of the body’s ability to fight off infections.
Some patients may need vitamin B and C supplements.
Iron levels may drop and cause anaemia, this can be replaced with iron tablets.
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Remember - individual patients have individual dietary requirements. What you need will depend on the stage of your kidney failure, your blood tests, and the kind of dialysis you may be having.
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Content Last Updated: 18th May 2000.
Page Last Updated: 11th February 2005.