Good nutrition is essential for a successful recovery after a kidney transplant. Just like any other surgery, your body will need adequate calories and protein for the wound to heal properly. Also, the possible side effects of post-transplant medications may impact nutrient utilisation and absorption.
To deal with the change in your nutritional requirements, you may have to make certain changes to your diet. After the transplant, your transplant team will refer you to a registered dietitian, who will work with you to develop a nutrition plan based on your weight, blood work results, kidney function, and prescribed medication.
Here are some key dietary changes which you may have to consider.
Proteins: Your protein intake may need to be higher than normal in the initial months after a kidney transplant. Protein will help your body heal faster after the surgery. It will also help rebuild the damaged muscle tissue broken down by high doses of steroids. Steroids are a type of immunosuppressive medicines which prevent and treat organ rejection following an organ transplant.
Sodium: Transplant medicines, such as steroids, can cause your body to hold on to sodium and water, which may raise your blood pressure. Hence, you may need to cut down on sodium in your diet. It is best to limit salt when cooking and choose fresh items over processed or canned options.
Potassium: Transplant medicines can also mess with your blood potassium levels. Your potassium level may dramatically increase or decrease, which can cause serious issues with your muscle and heart function. Check with your doctor if you need to restrict your potassium intake. To control your blood potassium level, make sure to follow the diet plan that your dietitian recommends.
Calcium: Transplant medication may make it hard for your body to absorb calcium, resulting in calcium loss. Overtime, your bones may become fragile and at risk of fracture. Take calcium with Vitamin D to improve calcium absorption.
Phosphorus: After transplant, you should take foods high in phosphorus, such as milk or dairy products, nuts and seeds. This helps replenish low phosphorus levels that some patients may experience.
Sugars: In some cases, post-transplant คาสิโนออนไลน์ UFABET ฝากถอนรวดเร็ว เริ่มต้นเล่นง่าย medications can decrease the body’s ability to efficiently use its blood sugar. Too much sugar can cause weight gain and increase your triglyceride and blood sugar levels.
Fluids: You are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help your new kidney work properly, unless your doctor has instructed otherwise. If you have been prescribed with a fluid restriction diet by your doctor, you should also reduce your salt or sodium intake.