Prepared by: Ms. Tabarak Ahmed Turki Al-Azzawi<br />Introduction<br /><br />The diet is a fundamental element in managing chronic kidney disease (CKD), where the kidneys become unable to eliminate metabolic waste and toxins. As a result, patients need to follow a carefully planned dietary regimen to reduce the workload on the kidneys, prevent disease progression, and delay or reduce the need for dialysis as much as possible.<br />Nutritional Goals for Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease<br /> 1. Limit the accumulation of waste products such as urea and creatinine.<br /> 2. Control blood pressure and body fluid levels.<br /> 3. Maintain electrolyte balance (sodium, potassium, phosphorus).<br /> 4. Prevent loss of muscle proteins and malnutrition.<br /> 5. Delay the progression of the disease to its final stages.<br />Important Nutrients in the Kidney Diet<br /> 1. Protein<br /> • Problem: Protein metabolism produces waste (such as urea) that the kidneys cannot filter effectively.<br /> • Recommendation: Reduce protein intake in early stages to 0.6–0.8 grams per kg of body weight per day.<br /> • Good protein sources: Eggs, skinless chicken, moderate amounts of milk.<br /> 2. Sodium<br /> • Problem: High sodium causes fluid retention and high blood pressure.<br /> • Recommendation: Limit salt intake to less than 2 grams per day.<br /> • Avoid: Canned foods, pickles, potato chips, processed meats.<br /> 3. Potassium<br /> • Problem: High potassium levels may cause irregular heartbeats.<br /> • Avoid or limit: Bananas, tomatoes, potatoes, oranges, dates, apricots.<br /> • Safe alternatives: Apples, grapes, cabbage, cucumbers, rice.<br /> 4. Phosphorus<br /> • Problem: Phosphorus buildup leads to bone fragility and heart problems.<br /> • Avoid: Full-fat dairy products, nuts, dark sodas.<br /> • Supplements: In some cases, phosphorus binders are prescribed.<br /> 5. Fluids<br /> • Problem: Kidneys lose the ability to remove excess fluids.<br /> • Recommendation: Reduce daily fluid intake according to doctor’s advice.<br /> • Important indicators: Urination, daily weight, swelling.<br />General Tips for CKD Patients<br /> • Carefully read food labels to avoid hidden sodium and preservatives.<br /> • Divide meals into small portions spread throughout the day.<br /> • Follow up with a nutrition specialist experienced in kidney diseases.<br /> • Avoid random supplements or herbs without medical consultation.<br /> • Monitor hemoglobin levels to prevent anemia caused by kidney disease.<br />Conclusion<br />Following a specialized diet for chronic kidney disease patients is not just a health recommendation but an integral part of the comprehensive treatment plan. Nutrition helps reduce toxin buildup, improve patient quality of life, and delay the need for dialysis. Close follow-up with the medical and nutritional team remains the key to successful management of this chronic illness.<br /><br />AL_mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq