What is a typical
Kidney Transplant Diet?

kidney transplant diet, together with immunosuppressive or anti-rejection medication is required after a kidney transplant surgery. They are vital in minimizing the risk of the patient's body rejecting the new kidney.

While there are general guidelines, a kidney transplant diet should always be determined by a trained medical professional. The precise diet is normally prescribed by a registered dietician or nutritionist. This is important, since the need of each patient may be different.

A transplant diet is determined by the patient's medical condition, taking into account any underlying condition (such as diabetes mellitus), which may have caused kidney failure. Immediately after a transplant surgery, it is important not to put too much pressure on the new kidney. There must be an adequate period of time for the patient to recuperate. The objective of a kidney transplant diet is to maintain the health of the patient and minimize the stress on the kidneys.

A typical kidney transplant diet is low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorous, three substances that the kidneys regulate. Here are some general guidelines for reducing the intake of these three substances.

• Limit sodium intake. Avoid foods with a high salt (sodium) or MSG content. It is important to read food labels. Some patients are able to use salt substitutes, but it is always advisable to seek the advice of a competent qualified medical professional. some salt substitutes contain relatively high levels of potassium, which is not recommended for some kidney transplant patients.

• Limit intake of potassium. As mentioned above, some salt substitutes may contain high levels of potassium. It may also be found in dairy products and some chocolates.

• Limit the intake of phosphorous. This is found in protein-rich foods like milk, meat, fish, eggs and poultry. It is also found in legumes and nuts. Phosphorous is also found in foods with phosphorus-boosting additives such as baked goods, bread, processed meats and cheeses, and soft drinks.

• Limit protein intake. This may be another dietary restriction, depending on the cause of kidney failure. This is found in many of the food outlined above.

In addition to a kidney transplant diet, a doctor may also prescribe medication and vitamin supplements. For instance, patients with hypertension and/ or diabetes may require medication to control blood pressure and blood sugar. A multivitamin (including vitamin D, which promotes absorption of calcium) along with calcium supplements, may also be prescribed.

These are general guideline, but a kidney transplant diet must be tailored to suit each patient's needs. It is therefore important to consult with a competent health care professional.

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