Dietary Considerations for Chronic Renal Failure
Disease description:
My father has been diagnosed with chronic renal failure; he has been getting weaker and less energetic day by day. He has to take many medications daily, which makes me feel very distressed. May I ask, what are the dietary considerations for chronic renal failure?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Dietary considerations for patients with chronic renal failure are as follows:
1. Salt restriction: Daily salt intake should be less than 3 grams whenever possible, to avoid edema and hypertension caused by high-salt diets.
2. Protein limitation: Prioritize high-quality proteins such as fish, milk, lean meat, and eggs. Control daily protein intake to 0.6–0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, and reduce intake of plant-based proteins.
3. Low-potassium diet: For patients with hyperkalemia, restrict foods high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes.
4. Low-phosphorus intake: Reduce consumption of high-phosphorus foods such as processed foods and whole grains, to prevent hyperphosphatemia and its complications.
5. Fluid control: Adjust fluid intake according to urine output to avoid edema and heart failure.
6. Balanced nutrition: Consume adequate carbohydrates and fats to ensure sufficient caloric intake, and use vegetable oils for cooking.
