Caribbean: Fluid and the Kidney Diet

Making healthy food choices is important to us all, but it is even more important if you have chronic kidney disease (CKD). Good nutrition gives you energy to do your daily tasks, prevent infection, build muscle, help maintain a healthy weight— and it may keep your kidney disease from getting worse.

Your kidneys help keep the right balance of nutrients and minerals in your body. But if you have kidney disease, your kidneys may not do this job very well. There are five key nutrients you may need to control: Protein, Sodium, Fluid, Potassium, and Phosphorus. Additional handouts will give you more information about each of the key nutrients. Eating the right amount of each of these can help control the buildup of waste and fluid in your blood.

Let’s see how fluid fits into the kidney diet.

The amount of fluid you may have will depend on your level of kidney function or type of dialysis treatment.  Consuming too much fluid can be bad for your health. If you are on dialysis, it can cause discomfort during treatment.  You may not need to limit your fluids if you have early stage CKD.

• The right amount of water helps our body work properly
• Too much fluid can cause high blood pressure, fluid buildup around the heart and lungs, and swollen ankles or legs
• Too little fluid can cause dehydration, hypotension, and accumulation of waste products

The amount of fluid you should drink will depend on the stage of your chronic kidney disease and whether you are on dialysis.

Ask your doctor about meeting with a registered dietitian with special training in kidney disease to help you manage your fluid intake.

*High in potassium, consult your registered dietitian for adequate portion size

** Some sodas and malt beverages may contain phosphorus additives, please read specific ingredients

• Measure and track your fluid intake.
• Limit salt intake to decrease feelings of thirst.
• Manage your thirst with sugar-free hard candies or frozen fruits.

Sorrel (Hibiscus) Tea is a refreshing drink from the Caribbean that is good for patients with kidney disease. It is made with dried sorrel flowers, cinnamon, ginger, and a small amount of honey. This tea helps to stay hydrated and has low potassium and sodium, making it kidney-friendly.