Lifestyle and Diet in Dialysis

Your guide to staying healthy, active, and positive while on dialysis

Living with dialysis can be challenging, but with the right habits and support, you can lead a fulfilling and active life. Here are some essential lifestyle tips to help you feel your best:

Follow a Kidney-Friendly Diet

Your diet plays a key role in managing your health on dialysis.

Limit:

• Salt – to prevent fluid retention and high blood pressure.
• Potassium – high levels can affect your heart (found in bananas, oranges, tomatoes).
• Phosphorus – to protect bones and blood vessels (avoid cola, dairy, nuts).

Include:

• High-quality proteins (egg whites, lean meat, fish).
• Adequate calories to maintain energy.
• Enough fiber to support digestion.

Consult a renal dietitian for a personalized meal plan.

Control Fluid Intake

Since dialysis can only remove a limited amount of fluid:

• Limit daily fluid intake as advised (usually around 1–2 liters).
• Reduce salt to avoid feeling thirsty.
• Measure your daily weight to monitor fluid buildup.

Take Medicines as Prescribed

Stick to your medication schedule:

• Phosphate binders – take them with meals
• Erythropoietin (EPO) injections – to manage anemia
• Blood pressure and diabetes medications – adjust with your nephrologist’s guidance

Never stop or change medications without consulting your doctor.

Stay Active

Even light activity can improve energy, mood, and blood pressure.

• Walk daily, stretch, or do chair exercises
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise on dialysis days
• Speak to your care team before starting any new fitness routine

Care for Your Access Site

Whether you have a fistula, graft, or catheter:

• Keep the site clean and dry
• Avoid lifting heavy objects with that arm
• Notify your team if you see redness, swelling, or drainage

Attend All Dialysis Sessions

Each session is vital to remove waste and extra fluid.

• Do not skip or shorten sessions
• Arrive on time and inform the unit in advance if you’re unwell

Watch for Warning Signs

Call your healthcare team if you notice:

• Shortness of breath
• Severe fatigue
• Sudden weight gain
• Swelling in the legs or face
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat

Take Care of Your Emotional Health

Dialysis can affect your mood and relationships. Don’t hesitate to:

• Talk to a counselor or mental health professional
• Connect with patient support groups
• Share your concerns with your family and dialysis team

Stay Informed & Involved

Understand your condition and stay engaged in your care.

• Learn about your lab values and dialysis adequacy
• Ask questions
• Explore kidney transplant options if you’re eligible

Follow these tips with vigilance to maintain an active lifestyle while undergoing dialysis. If you have further clarifications regarding these lifestyle tips, do not hesitate to reach out to us at Kidnefy. We have a full-fledged team of experts who can guide and support you to ensure you have a successful treatment process.