Dietary control is an important aspect of life of the patient undergoing dialysis. A properly designed renal diet allows to manage the accumulation of fluid, balance electrolytes, prevent muscle loss, and sustain good health. This dialysis renal diet plan is created using the foods that are commonly accessible in India and is therefore practical and easy to follow at home.
1. Protein Intake (High-Quality Protein Focus)
Dialysis eliminates waste products in the blood but it also leads to loss of proteins. In order to avoid muscle weakness and fatigue, dialysis patients require proper high-quality protein diet daily.
Suggested sources of Indian proteins (controlled portions):
- Egg whites.
- Paneer (small amounts, low salt).
- Boiled, grilled or lightly sautéed chicken or fish.
- Dal or pulses in balanced proportions.
Eliminate excess protein, fried or processed food. Always distribute the protein intake evenly throughout the meals rather than taking it in a single sitting.
2. Low Potassium Food Selection
As per the renal dietician in Mumbai, the increased level of potassium may influence the heart rhythm and be life-threatening. It is necessary to select low-potassium foods within a renal diet.
Fruits and vegetables containing low potassium:
- Fruits: Apple, papaya.
- Vegetables: Bottle gourd (lauki), ridge gourd (tori), cabbage, cauliflower.
Foods to limit or avoid:
- Banana, orange, chikoo.
- Tomato (in excess).
- Potato (only when well leached).
Tip: Leach vegetables by placing cut pieces in warm water and leaving it in the water 2-3 hours before cooking and then disposing of the water.
3. Sodium (Salt) Restriction
Fluid retention and an increase in blood pressure are dangerous conditions that are caused by excess sodium, and these could be dangerous to dialysis patients.
Salt-control tips:
- Cook with minimal salt.
- Do not take pickles, papad, or packaged snacks.
- Restrict chutneys, sauces and instant foods.
As recommended by nutritionists in Mumbai, add lemon juice, herbs, or mild spices to enhance flavor without adding extra salt.
Phosphorus Control
High amounts of phosphorus lead to weak bones with painful and itchy joints. Phosphorus should be restricted in the diet of dialysis patients.
4. High-phosphorus foods that should be limited:
- Milk and milk products (limitquantity).
- Nuts, seeds, peanut butter.
- Chocolate, cocoa, cola drinks.
Better choices:
- Rice-based meals.
- Plain rice, idli, dosa (low oil, low salt).
- Wheat products should be taken in moderation.
Witha prescription, phosphate binders must be taken accordingly.
5. Fluid Intake Management
Fluid overload may result in swelling, shortness of breath, and cardiac overload. Strict fluid limit is needed in most dialysis patients.
Fluid management tips:
- Take the daily fluid intake prescribed by your physician.
- Count tea, coffee, soups, ice cream, and watery fruits among fluids.
- To control thirst, use ice cubes or rinse your mouth under water.
- Salty foods, which make one thirsty, should be avoided.
6. Portion Control & Meal Timing
Consumption of huge meals may lead to discomfort and abrupt electrolyte imbalances. Smaller but frequent meals are used to keep the energy level up.
Best practices:
- Eat 4-5 small meals daily.
- Do not eat too much in the evenings.
- Maintain a regular meal schedule.
7. Cooking Methods for Kidney Safety
The method of cooking is important to a renal diet just like the choice of food.
Preferred cooking methods:
- Pressure cooking and boiling.
- Grilling or shallow sauteing.
- Steaming vegetables.
Deep frying, too much oil and masala-filled gravies should be avoided.
Bottomline
The dialysis patient using Indian foods should have a balanced renal diet chart as it is a critical factor for kidney health management. The emphasis on high-quality protein, low potassium and phosphorus foods, strict sodium and fluid control, and kidney-safe cooking techniques can have a considerable positive effect on the quality of life. Never create your diet plan without the advice of a renal dietitian as you will need a specific diet to suit your nutritional needs and dialysis sessions.
