What is kidney nutrition?

Looking after the health and well-being of our kidneys (renal system) is important at any age. The kidneys act as a filter, working to excrete waste products from our bodies through urine. These waste products are largely related to the food we eat.

Many factors can affect your kidney function. These include age, poorly controlled Type 1 and 2 diabetes, cardiac problems, elevated blood pressure, being overweight or obese, episodes where you are very unwell (acute medical problems) as well as dehydration. When your kidneys are under more stress, it can mean that you have a greater chance of long lasting damage to your kidneys.

How can PPN dietitians help with kidney nutrition?

Our dietitians can help you to ensure you are eating the correct foods to achieve a healthy body weight. This will also optimise your nutritional status, to preserve kidney function and health.

If you already have kidney impairment or end stage kidney failure, our dietitians can help to develop a tailored meal plan that provides the appropriate levels of protein, sodium (salt), potassium and phosphate, which can be dangerous to a person with kidney failure if consumed in excessive amounts.