By Maria Stasios, RD, LDN, CSR – DaVita® Nutritionist
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or diagnosis.
Each season brings different social events. Prepare in advance to make good food choices when following a diet associated with kidney disease.
1. Plan ahead
Ask the host what the menu will be so you can decide in advance what to eat or bring a dish you have prepared yourself. This will give you more control over the situation and allow you to be more attentive to your nutritional needs.
2. Avoid salty foods
Foods high in salt make you thirsty, which can lead you to drink more fluids than you should. Choose foods low in sodium. For example, grilled chicken or plain hamburgers are better choices than sausages, hot dogs, or ham. Before grilling hamburgers, ask that no salt be added. You can also moderate your use of barbecue and salad dressings, which are often high in salt, or better yet, bring your own salt-free options with you.
3. Control your fluid intake
Saiba qual é a quantidade de líquidos que pode consumir. Lembre-se de que alimentos como gelatina, saladas com molho e gelados contam como líquidos. Para aliviar a sede extra, experimente rebuçados ou pastilhas elásticas sem açúcar com sabor a menta para humedecer a boca e reduzir a vontade de beber.
4. Moderate your alcohol consumption
Talk to your doctor about drinking alcohol. If it's okay, drink in moderation. Remember that alcohol also counts toward your total fluid intake. Avoid drinks high in potassium and phosphorus, like fruit juices, wine, and soft drinks.
5. Limit your consumption of potassium-rich fruits and vegetables
Review the list of fruits and vegetables allowed in your diet or ask your nutritionist for a new list, if necessary. Even the “allowed” options should be consumed with attention to portion sizes. Remember: fresh fruits are, as a rule, more nutritious, but this can be a problem for those on hemodialysis.
6. Practice food safety
Kidney disease increases the risk of foodborne infections. Keep food at safe temperatures, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and cook food thoroughly.
7. Always take your medication with you!
Regardless of social events, taking your medication as prescribed is very important to ensure that everything goes smoothly. If you have any questions, you should always talk to the clinical team.
Having a good plan and maintaining a positive attitude towards food gives you the freedom to enjoy any social event without worries. Find out how to take care of yourself throughout the year.
