According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. BS Bui Thi Nhung (Vice Chairman of the Vietnam Nutrition Association, Head of the Nutrition Department of Sun Hospital), the diet of people with impaired kidney function is a pathological diet, which needs to be built and monitored by a doctor or nutritionist, instead of applying conventional menus.
1. Building a diet according to each stage of kidney failure
The patient's nutritional needs will vary depending on the severity of kidney function decline. In particular, the amount of protein needs to be calculated appropriately at each stage.
For example, at some stages, patients may need about 0.8g of protein/kg of weight per day, while at other stages it is only about 0.6g/kg. Therefore, patients should not arbitrarily cut down or supplement protein but need to be guided by a doctor.
2. Strictly follow the pathological diet
People with impaired kidney function need to eat the right amount for each food group such as rice, protein, green vegetables and fat.
Depending on the cause of kidney failure, as well as each stage of the disease, doctors will develop a diet with appropriate energy and nutrient ratios. Following the instructions will help control the disease more effectively.
3. Control salt intake
Limiting salt is one of the important principles for people with impaired kidney function.
Depending on the severity of the disease, the daily salt intake may need to be reduced to below 3g or lower as directed by the doctor. Eating too salty food can increase the burden on the kidneys and affect the treatment process.
4. Choose the right milk and milk products
Not every type of milk is suitable for people with kidney disease. Patients need to use specialized nutritional products according to each stage of treatment.
For example, people who have not had blood filtration and people who have had blood filtration will have different nutritional needs, so it is necessary to choose products according to the instructions of a doctor or nutritionist.
5. Proactively examine and receive advice from experts
When diagnosed with kidney dysfunction, patients should go to medical facilities to be consulted by a doctor or nutritionist for appropriate diet advice.
Nutrition for people with kidney failure cannot be applied in general like other diseases but needs to be individualized according to the health condition and stage of the disease. Strictly following the instructions will contribute to protecting kidney function and improving treatment effectiveness.
