Chronic Kidney Disease Symptoms and Diet

Chronic kidney disease, also called chronic kidney failure, describes the gradual loss of kidney function. Your kidneys filter wastes and excess fluids from your blood, which are then excreted in your urine. When chronic kidney disease reaches an advanced stage, dangerous levels of fluid, electrolytes and wastes can build up in your body.
In the early stages of chronic kidney disease, you may have few signs or symptoms. Chronic kidney disease may not become apparent until your kidney function is significantly impaired.
Symptoms may start to become present in CKD:
Fatigue
Fluid retention, swelling (edema) of extremities and shortness of breath:
Urination changes (foamy; dark orange, brown, tea-colored or red if it contains blood; and urinating more or less than normal)
Kidney pain felt in their back
Sleep problemsdue to muscle cramps or restless legs
Diet and CKD
For CKD patient, a healthy diet is likely to consist of:
Eating high-quality protein and potassium (if blood levels are above normal)
Consuming a some grains, fruits and vegetables (potassium and phosphorus are at normal levels)
Limiting phosphorus to help PTH levels remain normal, prevent bone disease and even preserve existing kidney function
Lowering calcium consumption
Cutting back carbohydrates for those with diabetes
Decreasing saturated fats to help lower cholesterol
Lowering sodium for people with high blood pressure or fluid retention by cutting out processed and pre-packaged foods
Limiting calcium if blood levels are too high
Taking water soluble vitamins such as C (100 mg per day) and B complex, or completely avoiding over-the-counter dietary supplements (unless approved by the nephrologist)

It’s helpful to work with a registered renal dietitian because as the stages of CKD change, so will the diet.