IgA Nephropathy Diet

Kidneys are essential to regulate the flow of fluids in the body. The organ is instrumental in removing toxins from the blood as well as the secretion of excess fluids and salt in the form of urine. When the kidney fails to perform its functions a person is said to suffer from renal failure caused by kidney disease.

Chronic kidney disease has become increasing common. Watching what you eat and drink becomes vital in such situations. Chronic kidney disease patients are often placed of special diets that keep their kidneys healthier for a longer period of time. A kidney disease diet contains less phosphorus, potassium and sodium.

The Kidney Diet

While suffering from kidney failure, it is important to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet. After getting a go-ahead signal from your physician, you need to maintain a diet that includes less consumption of sodium, phosphorus and potassium.

The diet also includes a reduction in the intake of fluids. This means drinking only when absolutely thirsty instead of just out of habit. The diet includes eating less salt because salt makes you feel thirsty.

Avoid Phosphorus-Rich Food

Phosphorus is an important mineral that helps to keep the bones in the body healthy and strong. During kidney failure, the body loses its capability to strike a balance between calcium and phosphorus in the body. The body fails to get rid of excess phosphorus and as a result is not able to take in calcium. Owing to this, the body begins “stealing” calcium from the bones, making them weak. Therefore, it is essential to refrain from eating food that is rich in phosphorus like coffee, cheese, peanut butter and beer. Instead opt for food like broccoli, zucchini squash and non-dairy products.

Stay Away From Excessive Sodium

Sodium in appropriate doses is important for the smooth functioning of the body. The mineral controls blood pressure and muscle contractions along with balancing fluids present in the body. A healthy kidney is capable of removing excessive amounts of sodium in the body. However, with the weak kidney, sodium content in the body starts building up and causes swelling. Therefore, it is important to stay away from sodium rich food like table salt, potato chops, bacon, cheese and canned and processed food. Doctors often recommend eating dishes seasoned with garlic and oregano and also lemons.

Opt For A Kidney Diet Which Has Less Potassium

Potassium is another important mineral in the body responsible for ensuring the all nerves and muscles in the body, especially the heart functions properly. The kidney is responsible for maintaining a safe level of potassium in the body. However, potassium levels begin to rise in case of a kidney failure. Therefore, it is important to stay away from food rich in potassium like potatoes, apricots, nuts, raisins and mustard. Food with low potassium includes certain fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cranberry, carrots and cherries.

It is important to maintain a strict kidney diet when diagnosed with renal failure. This ensures your kidney remains healthier for longer.

Searching for other ways to lower Creatinine levels, improve kidney function, and safeguard your kidneys from further damage? Kidney disease can come as a complete surprise. You are just living your life and one day seemingly all at once you learn you have a major problem with your kidneys that must be dealt with. While kidney disease is a great burden know that there are solutions and you can heal your kidneys and even restore them to their original health. Hopefully this information will help you come to a better understanding of the other options you have outside of dialysis and transplant.