But, with the onset of dialysis treatment, big changes in food recommendations take place. Patients must strive to eat enough to keep body weight steady, often in spite of declining appetite. At the same time, they must restrict sodium, potassium, phosphorous and liquid intake. Other foods do contain protein, but without the amino acids the protein is less likely to be converted to muscle and to be passed in urine, placing stress on already struggling kidneys. For a person on dialysis, protein requirements skyrocket.
Dietitians encourage meat at every meal, frequent egg dishes, and high protein supplements.
Since this is currently not a requirement for listing in the nutritional information on food packages, a list of high and low potassium foods from a dietitian or a comprehensive book on nutrition is a valuable resource. While still limited, sodium is one of the minerals removed by the dializing process, so guidelines might be modified upward. Depending on the particular medical condition, a limit of 2 to 3 grams daily will be given. Allowable cheeses include parmesan and other white, low-sodium varieties. Non-dairy substitutes work well on cereal, in coffee, and in desserts.