How to start a vegetarian diet? Is it dangerous for you if you have kidney problems? Learn everything you need to know about the matter.
Some nutrients, such as sodium and potassium, need to be controlled in the context of kidney problems to avoid overloading organ function. Learn all about the recommendations in these clinical charts.
Vegetarian people with kidney problems must have a thorough dietary control. It is important to monitor the contribution of certain nutrients to avoid an over demand of the kidney, which could lead to a progression of the underlying pathology and a loss of organ function.
Well, today, you’ll learn everything there is to know about it. However, remember that it is essential to follow the doctor’s instructions and adapt the regimen to each individual case.
The prescribed medication could affect nutritional needs. Even so, there are certain foods with which you should be careful in general.
How to start a vegetarian diet if you have kidney problems?
The first thing to take into account in the diet for vegetarians with kidney problems is the need to control the supply of minerals, especially sodium. An excessive consumption of the nutrient could be counterproductive for the function of the organs in pathological situations, according to a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
Also, it is important to be careful with the amount of protein. These elements are essential when there is a good state of health. However, an excessive intake in the context of kidney disease is not always recommended.
There is disagreement about it. However, and according to research published in the journal Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, it is important to meet the requirements without exceeding it.
Keep in mind that plant-based foods have low-quality protein. The good news is that the vegetarian diet allows the inclusion of animal products, such as dairy products and eggs, in the guideline. This reduces the risk of deficit.
Recommended foods
Ensuring the supply of high-quality fats is crucial. Those of the trans type could be negative for the body’s function, since they promote inflammation. However, avocado and vegetable oils contribute to reaching a state of homeostasis.
On the other hand, to reach a sufficient protein intake it will be key to include foods such as soy and tempeh. Even seitan, whole grains, and nut butters may help meet the needs.
It may also be advisable to include some dairy products, such as low-sodium cottage cheese. Vegetarians, as a general rule, consume this type of product, like eggs. They are restrictive in animal foods, but not in derivatives, which are also recommended.
Forbidden food
It is important to be clear about which products should not be included in the diet of vegetarians with kidney problems. We especially highlight those with a high sodium content, which can cause an increase in blood pressure. This is indicated by a study published in Nutrients.
Snacks and ultra-processed foods will never be a good option, in the same way as pickles. You should moderate the intake of fruits, since the high content of simple sugars could hinder the function of the kidneys. Especially the banana, which you need to exclude due to its high potassium concentration. Juices, chocolates and sweets are not a good option either.
Is it necessary to use supplements in vegetarians with kidney problems?
As a general rule, nutritionists recommend no specific supplement in the vegetarian diets of kidney patients. If the consumption of food derived from animals is very low, the inclusion of vitamin B12 in the form of tablets or drinkable ampoules could be considered.
In addition, it is important to monitor the levels of vitamin D, a nutrient deficient in the general population. Maintaining a low level of the element can be related to a worse state of health.
On the other hand, we must pay attention to blood tests to detect inefficiencies in minerals, which can be corrected through the diet itself or a supplement. Some consider the benefit of including creatine even.
However, you have to focus on specific cases. It is essential to individualize each situation to offer a personalized and appropriate recommendation.
The vegetarian diet must be optimized in people with kidney problems
As mentioned, it is crucial to optimize the eating pattern in people with kidney problems. A failure in this aspect can condition the progression of the pathology, thus generating a reduction in well-being and an increased risk of complications.
While supplements are not necessary at first, they can help make up for deficiencies. Now, the key is to choose correctly which products to emphasize and which to restrict to achieve an optimal balance. It is essential not to exceed the intake of sodium and potassium.
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