Can people on peritoneal dialysis eat garlic?

Patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis are not advised to consume garlic.

Peritoneal dialysis is a treatment method that substitutes for kidney function by using the peritoneum as a semipermeable membrane to remove metabolic waste and excess water from the body through osmosis and diffusion. Garlic contains a certain amount of potassium, and the potassium balance in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis can be easily disrupted. Therefore, garlic should be consumed in moderation to avoid excessive intake of potassium ions, which may lead to hyperkalemia and potentially cause serious complications such as arrhythmia. Patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis need to limit phosphorus intake to prevent or control renal bone disease.

The diet of patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis should follow certain principles, such as consuming high-quality protein, reducing intake of foods high in phosphorus, and following a low-salt diet. Therefore, when selecting food, patients should aim to choose bland and easily digestible options. While ensuring adequate protein intake, sufficient energy intake should also be maintained. Peritoneal dialysis patients can consume foods such as lotus root starch, sweet potatoes, and cellophane noodles to ensure adequate energy intake and enhance satiety.