Kidney failure impairs the body's ability to filter and eliminate metabolic waste products. Diet plays a vital role in managing the condition, limiting electrolyte imbalances, blood pressure issues, and fluid retention. According to Doctor Ho Manh Linh, from the Department of Nephrology and Dialysis at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, patients should not impose excessive dietary restrictions on themselves. Instead, their meal plans should be developed based on kidney function, laboratory test results, and treatment methods.

Controlling protein intake

For some chronic kidney disease patients not yet undergoing dialysis, a suitably reduced protein diet can help decrease waste products from protein metabolism, thereby easing the burden on the kidneys. However, reducing protein too much can lead to energy deficiency, muscle mass loss, and malnutrition in patients.

Patients undergoing hemodialysis, however, require a higher protein intake because some amino acids and proteins can be lost during the dialysis process. Therefore, protein intake must be individualized rather than applying a universal amount for all patients.

Eating a low-salt diet

Controlling salt helps limit fluid retention and supports blood pressure management, particularly in individuals with edema or hypertension. Patients should reduce high-salt dishes and prioritize fresh foods over processed items. Limiting dipping sauces and reading food labels are crucial for monitoring sodium intake.

Monitoring potassium

Potassium is an essential mineral for muscle and heart function. However, when kidney function declines, the body's ability to excrete potassium may be reduced, leading to hyperkalemia (high blood potassium). If severe, this condition can cause heart rhythm disturbances.

However, not all kidney failure patients need to restrict many potassium-rich foods. Potassium restriction should be based on laboratory test results and a doctor's guidance. Arbitrarily eliminating too many fruits and vegetables from the diet can lead to an unbalanced nutritional intake.

Doctor Linh advises a patient on their diet. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Controlling phosphorus

When kidney function declines, phosphorus can accumulate in the blood, causing mineral metabolism disorders that affect bones and blood vessels. Patients should limit processed foods, especially products containing phosphate additives.

A doctor may prescribe phosphate binders if necessary. Therefore, patients should not completely eliminate nutrient-rich foods due to phosphorus concerns; instead, they should follow guidance based on laboratory test results.

Prioritizing fresh foods

Meals for kidney failure patients should prioritize fresh, minimally processed foods, combining carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables, and protein sources appropriate for their needs. Eggs, fish, or meat can be selected depending on the protein amount recommended by a doctor or dietitian.

Regarding fruits and vegetables, patients should not create fixed "allowed" or "restricted" lists themselves. Food choices must be based on blood potassium levels, the stage of the disease, and any co-existing medical conditions.

Fluid intake based on disease stage

Kidney failure patients do not always need to drink a lot of water. When kidney function is severely impaired, particularly in individuals with low urine output or those on dialysis, fluid intake must be controlled to prevent fluid retention, edema, and shortness of breath.

Conversely, some individuals still have good urine output and do not require excessive fluid restriction. A doctor will determine the appropriate fluid intake based on urine volume, body weight, presence of edema, blood pressure, and the specific treatment method.

Doctor Linh advises kidney failure patients not to self-impose restrictive diets or eliminate multiple food groups simultaneously. Consuming adequate energy, controlling essential nutrients, and maintaining a suitable body weight are crucial to prevent malnutrition, sustain health, and support the long-term treatment process.

Thu Giang