Focus on these areas for your best health on dialysis. The type of dialysis treatment you choose may affect your nutrition plan. Meet with your dietitian to develop the best nutrition plan for you.
Nutritional Information
Healthy Eating for Dialysis
Eat enough protein, and understand different protein sources.
- Protein needs are higher for people on dialysis.
- Protein comes from both plant and animal foods.
- Good protein sources include eggs, beans, beef, chicken, fish, pork and tofu.
Choose foods lower in salt and sodium.
- Use sodium-free seasonings in place of salt.
- Prepare foods at home from fresh ingredients. Restaurant foods are typically high in sodium.
- When grocery shopping, look for low-sodium options. Foods canned with salt, boxed convenience items, and frozen prepared meals are typically high in sodium.
Eat the right amount of potassium.
- Depending on the type of dialysis you choose and your blood work, you may be asked to eat less, or more high-potassium foods.
- Your dietitian can provide a list of high and low-potassium foods that are right for you.
Choose foods with less phosphorus.
- Phosphorus is added to many packaged foods. Read the ingredients part of the food label for words containing “phos” or “phosphate” and limit these additives.
- Dairy foods such as milk and yogurt are high in phosphorus. Choose small portions of these foods or try milk alternatives without added phosphorus.
Limit fluids to recommended amounts.
- Once you begin dialysis, watch the amount of fluid you drink. Drinking too much may cause fluid to build up in the body and cause difficulty breathing.
- It is easier to limit fluids when you limit salty foods.