Dining Out With Confidence – On Dialysis

Dining out can be a challenge for people on dialysis, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little planning and awareness, you can enjoy dining out while managing your dialysis diet.

Plan ahead:
Follow your diet extra closely before and after dining out. This may include following an extra low salt, potassium, and phosphorus and less fluid intake. Choose a restaurant where you can ask for your food to be made without added salt and where they have freshly cooked options.

High protein:
Since you’re on dialysis, both animal proteins (poultry, fish, and eggs whites) and plant-based proteins are helpful to maintain muscle mass. It also helps fight infections and keep healthy protein in your blood.

Here are some ways to increase protein:
– Choose the lean cuts of meat like skinless chicken or turkey breast , fish .
– Order a 3-4 egg option.

Salt:
Salt can raise your blood pressure and also make you thirsty. Most restaurants add a lot of salt to their foods, Avoid salty condiments like soy sauce and especially fast-food ones. Avoid salty items like soy sauce, French fries (also high in potassium), and macaroni and cheese. Instead, order vegetables like carrots, green beans, or corn ect..

Potassium and Phosphorus:
Potassium is a mineral found in many foods, and it helps your heartbeat regular and your muscles work right. Phosphorus is a mineral found in foods like proteins, milk, cheese, fast foods, and packaged foods. Watch phosphorus and potassium. Choose low-phosphorus and low-potassium options. Limit dairy products and certain fruits and vegetables.

If the kidneys aren’t healthy, you may need to limit foods that can increase blood potassium levels to unsafe levels.

Fluids:
It’s important to limit what you drink if your dialysis team has told you to follow fluid restrictions. Consider the amount of fluid you already had during the day and how much you will want to have after your meal. One glass of liquid should be okay, but remember to also count the following as part of your daily fluid intake.

– Soup

– Ice-cream

Italian: Choose pasta dishes with tomato-based sauces instead of cream sauces.

Option for grilled chicken or fish instead of sausage or pepperoni.

Chinese: Choose steamed or stir-fried dishes instead of fried foods, Avoid soy sauce.