Hemodialysis patients face many obstacles when it comes to diet. There are many issues to think about including fluid intake, malnutrition and high phosphorus levels. Here are some helpful tips to maintain good nutrition while on dialysis:

• Control buildup of waste products and fluid in your blood. 
• Avoid complications of end stage kidney disease such as malnutrition, fluid overload, calciphylaxis (calcium deposits in soft tissues like skin), renal bone disease, heart disease.
• Keep protein, sodium, fluid, phosphorus, potassium in check.
• Meet your individual nutrition needs. Your renal dietitian will help you with a nutrition plan that meets your individual needs that includes your likes and dislikes, your lab results and your other problems such diabetes or hypertension. 

Good nutrition is attainable with motivation, dedication and the help of your renal dietitian and physician.

This article originally appeared in the August 2008 issue of AAKP Diet Tips & Bits.