The everyday battle for kidney patients is to choose what to eat and what not to. Being a patient, you have to decide about a diet that is moderate and yet functional at the same time. And this is not the only dilemma because as a kidney patient you have to eat the same food until you bet better. The choices are limited and restricted making it battle to be won by renal insufficiency. But thank god, you have got expertise advice by the dieticians of Karma Ayurveda. At every stage of your kidney disease, we have got you covered with our highly curated diet plans meant exclusively for you.
Some of our patients asked us this very familiar question, “Why do doctors refuse to take dairy products for kidney patients?” Since we are associated with kidney patients around the corner, we want to widen eye every patient of how dairy products can deteriorate the kidney function.
When it comes to dairy products, they are considered to be a salient part of our everyday life. Most people would say milk at least, if not more! However, dairy products are not limited to milk only, but also curd, cheese, yogurts, pudding, ice creams, which are favorites of one and alike. Apparently, dairy products are rich in protein, calcium, vitamins, phosphorus, and potassium. All of these minerals and vitamins are important for our bodies to function properly (terms and conditions apply).
A kidney patient is advised to consume only a limited portion of everyday dairy products. When the kidneys are unhealthy, they can sufficiently remove the waste product that the body produces after their consumption. On the contrary, a kidney that has a limited functionality available finds it hard to sift waste. At that time, protein, fluid, electrolytes like potassium and phosphorus reaches unsafe levels and may cause problems such as end-stage renal disease, heart palpitations, and even bone disorders.
Most dairy products are rich in these key nutrients, so you should understand the importance of limiting dairy products for your health.
Calcium
Dairy products are a rich source of calcium in one’s diet. Calcium is needed to make bones strong and healthy, contract muscles, and prevent blood from clotting. Moreover, milk also helps to serve nerve functions.
While with low kidney function, calcium starts to build up in the blood. But it does not mean you need to load off calcium completely, ask your dietician about the right quantity.
Protein
Dairy products are also loaded with protein. Protein has a key important role in our diet, helping fight infections, healing wounds, making fluid balance the right, etc. So, if you need to limit protein due to decreased kidney function, instead of abstaining protein completely, switch to healthy sources of protein. Say no to red meat as it can worsen your situation. A properly balanced diet of animal and plant sources is going to help you in the long run.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus can be found in many fruits and vegetables, essentially needed for bones and muscles. Phosphorus lets the body utilize carbs and fats for proper energy synthesis. Just like other electrolytes, phosphorus is also removed by the kidneys during the blood filtration process.
If not, high phosphorus levels may result in weak and brittle bones. This occurs on account of phosphorus buildup that pulls out calcium from the bones and makes them fragile and breakable. To subside the phosphorus accumulated levels, your dietician may also recommend phosphate binders that bind up phosphorus in the stomach and remove them through the stool.
Potassium
Dairy products have an abundant amount of potassium in them like fruits, vegetables, and salt substitutes. The main role of potassium is to regulate the heartbeat and muscles contract. If your body has a limited amount of potassium it means your kidneys are working properly. But rising levels of potassium can be a healthy indicator of lost kidney function. So, to conclude, being at the edge of renal disease your dietician would suggest low potassium serving in your meal.
Vitamins B
Vitamin B helps the body get energy from the food being eaten. Vitamins B12, riboflavin, and thiamine are present in too much amount in dairy products especially milk. One cup of milk has the full daily requirement of vitamin B12 which means if you limit milk, your body would face vitamin B12 deficiency. To compensate B12 deficiency, you may be advised B12 rich foods or B complex supplement by your renal dietician.
The takeaway
It can be said that while dairy products are rich in various nutrients, a kidney patient needs to limit dairy products for various reasons. To know your diet plans for the varied stages of CKD, always seek expert advice. Any food consumes without the knowledge of a dietician or a healthcare team may be harmful to your health.
Let us know if you need any dietary information.