Diet for children with kidney disease

Poor growth and weight gain are two major problems for children with kidney failure, so diet is usually not restricted unless needed. Children grow fastest during the first two years of life. The earlier the age at which kidney failure occurs, the more likely growth will be affected. The goals in feeding a child with kidney failure are to ensure normal growth and protect his/her health as much as possible. When the kidneys are not working well, they may not be able to get rid of waste products from foods in the diet. The doctor and dietitian will watch for signs of problems and suggest a diet if needed.

Does you child need to be on a special diet?

The diet must meet your child’s nutritional needs. Your renal dietitian has been trained to help you make meal plans to meet your child’s needs.Your renal dietitian will provide individual counseling and offer helpful suggestions, which take into account your child’s food likes and dislikes. Your child’s diet may need to be changed depending on: