Kidney Disease Program
Do You Have CKD? Try Diet, Not Drugs, to Manage Blood Pressure
Nearly 70% of people with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis require medication to manage their blood pressure levels, which often go up because of too much sodium. A low-sodium diet may control blood pressure without drugs, and in some cases, reverse heart disease. Imagine how much a low-sodium diet can help people who are newly diagnosed with kidney disease.
For most people, foods high in potassium can help control blood pressure, but chronic kidney disease patients have a hard time eliminating potassium from their bodies. Foods that are healthy for others – bananas, pumpkins, potatoes, tomatoes, orange juice, milk and certain cereals – can be poor choices for every day meals.
Similarly, the 8 glasses of water a day many sports and fitness gurus gush about may do more harm than good. Without restricting some fluids, some CKD patients are in danger of developing high blood pressure and congestive heart failure.
Processed foods are easy to prepare but simply aren’t healthy for anyone, and are especially dangerous for people whose kidneys have trouble functioning, because the excess phosphorus hidden in such foods can lead to problems in the heart, bones, and thyroid.
Don’t let these diet dangers get you down. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, ask for help. You can find food that is healthy, delicious and simple to prepare – without salt. Are you ready? The Delicious Dietitian offers Real Food for Real People Right Now.
What Physicians Are Saying:
— Duncan Scott, MD Nephrologist
"My family and I take care of my 80 year old father. He has numerous health issues such as kidney disease and high blood pressure and we weren’t sure what type of diet was best for him. The Delicious Dietitian sat down with us and explained what foods my father can and can't have. She helped us with menus and cooking tips that we can use to keep dad healthy. The Delicious Dietitian answered all of our questions, addressed our concerns and showed genuine compassion for our father."
— Ben, (Moss Point, MS)
Sources: Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplant and www.nutritionmd.org
