Potassium and Phosphorus in Diet for Hemodialysis

Potassium and phosphorus are the important electrolytes in our body. The amount of them is controlled by kidney. But patients with hemodialysis should well manage the amount in diet for kidney damage. So what should you know about potassium and phosphorus in diet for hemodialysis?
The importance to control potassium in diet.
Potassium-rich foods are limited for those on hemodialysis because potassium builds up between dialysis treatments and can cause problems such as weakness, muscle cramps, tiredness, irregular heartbeat and, worst of all, heart attack. Potassium is found mostly in fruits, vegetables and dairy products. Certain fruits and vegetables are very high in potassium while others are lower. However, eating a large amount of a low-potassium food can cause potassium to add up to dangerous levels. Be aware that most foods contain some potassium — meat, poultry, bread, pasta — so it can add up. Butter, margarine and oils are the only foods that are potassium free.
The importance to control phosphorus in diet.
Foods high in phosphorus are limited for those with chronic kidney disease (CKD) becausehemodialysis removes only a small amount of phosphorus from the blood. Unless the amount of phosphorus in the diet is limited, and medicines called phosphorus binders are taken regularly, phosphorus levels can get too high. This can increase the risk of developing complications such as itching, weak and brittle bones and calcium deposits in blood vessels and organs including the heart and lungs. Phosphorus is found in almost all foods although high-protein foods, dairy products, nuts, seeds, dried beans and peas, chocolate, colas and whole grain foods contain the highest amounts.

You can get more information about the diet for dialysis by sending email to kidneyask@hotmail.com.