DIET & KIDNEY INFORMATION

Fluids

You need water to live, but when your kidneys are badly damaged, you may not need as much.  This is because your kidneys cannot get rid of the extra fluid in your body.  When that happens, the extra fluid can build up in your body and cause your hands, feet or face to swell.  You might also notice that you weigh more.  Too much water in your body can even put pressure on your heart and lungs. 

If your doctor tells you to limit your water and fluids, you will need to cut back on how much you drink.  You will also need to cut back on some foods. Soup or foods that melt, like ice cream or gelatin, have a lot of water.  Many fruits and vegetables are high in water as well.