General guide for a suitable dialysis diet

Calcium Intake
Max. 2000 mg per day

It is not unusual to experience a reduced uptake of calcium, since calcium is often found in foods that contain high levels of phosphate. Interference in the metabolism of vitamin D also promotes the development of a calcium deficiency, which can eventually lead to bone metabolism disorders.

Protein Intake
1.1-1.2 g per kg of body weight per day
(CAPD: 1.1-1.3 g per kg of body weight per day)

Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, are removed during dialysis. Even more are lost from CAPD than haemodialysis, since dialysis is constant. Increased protein intake is needed to prevent catabolism. The average person eats 0.8-0.85 g of protein per kg of body weight per day. Hence, a 70 kg patient must consume an additional 17.5-21 g of protein per day, which is equivalent to the amount in a pouch of Renapro or Renergy.

Energy Intake
30-40 kcal per kg of body weight per day
(CAPD: minus the calories from the glucose in the dialysate)

Dialysis treatment is stressful on the body; the body requires more energy to help it recuperate. Carbohydrates are also removed during dialysis, requiring a higher intake of carbohydrates. According to studies, the average dialysis patient only absorbs 20-25 kcal per kg of body weight per day. Thus, a 70 kg patient has a deficiency of 350-700 kcal per day, which can be supplemented by a pouch of Renergy or Renamil.

Fluid Intake
500-800 ml in addition to the daily volume of residual urine

Potassium Intake
Max. 2000 mg per day

Reduced urinary excretion causes potassium to collect in the body. Too much potassium can lead to hyperkalaemia (potassium poisoning), which can potentially cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia and sudden cardiac arrest. Hyperkalaemia is usually caused by the bodily absorption of too much nourishment. In addition, potassium enters the bloodstream when bodily substances are depleted. If the body does not retain enough energy, the body’s potassium level increases.

Sodium Intake
1.6-2.4 g sodium per day
4.0-6.0 g table salt per day

Sodium (table salt) promotes thirst in order to help increase water retention (oedema). Increased water retention resulting from the insufficient expulsion and/or increased intake of fluids leads to a rise in blood pressure.

Phosphate Intake
Max. 1000 mg per day

Weakening kidney function leads to hypophosphatemia, and if prolonged, can lead to bone degradation (osteopathy) and parathyroid hypertension. You can reduce your intake of phosphate by avoiding phosphate-rich foods.