Over the past few years, our dietitians, chef, and purchasing department have worked hard to create a diet that meets the needs of our clients with end-stage renal disease and those who are on hemodialysis. Our renal diet is medically tailored to reduce their sodium, potassium, and phosphorus intake, while still providing them with their necessary daily nutrition. Each meal is catered to meet the needs and safety measures of clients who are at risk for hyperkalemia (elevated blood potassium levels), hyperphosphatemia (elevated blood phosphorus levels) and excessive fluid retention and hypertension (high blood pressure).
The main function of the kidneys is to maintain the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body. The kidneys are continuously filtering blood to remove waste from the body. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, the diet must be altered significantly and navigating the changes required can get tricky. For example, clients on a renal diet are encouraged to avoid whole grain products, like whole wheat bread and brown rice, and replace them with white bread and white rice instead. Cooked greens are to be avoided and dairy products limited.
Today, thanks to the tireless work of our team, we also offer our meals with love in a renal diet to provide members of our community in need with the nutrition and support we commit to them. In addition to this, in the past month, we have instituted a renal grocery shopping option for the first time in the history of the agency! We are proud to continue working to provide all of our clients with options that meet their specific needs.
For more on our renal diet options please contact Client Services at 415-447-2326.
Image sourced from Kidney Buzz