Definition of Kidney diet - dialysis patients:

The diet for patients with end-stage kidney disease who are on dialysis is usually high in protein and low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. Fluid intake is also restricted.

Function:

The purpose of this diet is to maintain a balance of electrolytes, minerals, and fluid in patients who are on dialysis. The special diet is important because dialysis alone does not effectively remove ALL waste products. These waste products can also build up between dialysis treatments.

Most dialysis patients urinate very little or not at all, and therefore fluid restriction between treatments is very important. Without urination, fluid will build up in the body and cause excess fluid in the heart, lungs, and ankles.

Patients on dialysis need to get enough protein and adequate nutrition because they can become malnourished.

This diet will help dialysis patients feel as good as possible.