New Delhi: For conducting a kidney transplant, the immune system of the recipient is intentionally suppressed with medications to prevent the rejection of the new organ. While this is vital for the success of the transplant, it also increases the recipient’s susceptibility to infections. Therefore, careful diet and lifestyle management are essential for maintaining overall health. A balanced diet is crucial in providing important nutrients that aid in quick recovery and enhance the body’s ability to fight infections.
Kidney Transplant and Sodium
Transplant medicines, especially steroids, may cause your body to hold on to fluid, and salt makes this problem worse. Increased fluid in the body raises blood pressure. Controlling blood pressure is very important to your transplant. It is a good idea to limit food items high in salt, such as:
- Table salt
- Pre-packaged frozen dinners
- Ramen noodles, boxed potatoes and packaged noodle and rice mixes
- Canned soups and pasta sauces
- Pickled food, such as olives and pickles
- Snack food, such as salted chips, nuts, pretzels and popcorn
Kidney Health Tip:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink 2 litres (about 8 cups) of water daily to support healthy kidney function. Avoid drinking water from lakes and rivers
- Calcium Intake: 3 servings of food high in calcium daily from dairy products, (low-fat) seeds and dark leafy greens
- Reduce Sodium Intake. Daily Limit: Keep sodium consumption under 2-3 grams daily (less than one teaspoon salt).
- Smart Choices: Select food with less than 140 mg of sodium per serving to stay within your daily sodium limit.
- Do not use alcohol, cigarettes, other tobacco products, or illegal drugs.
Lifestyle and Post-Transplant Health
Reduced physical activity and poor physical fitness are common challenges for kidney transplant recipients. They can significantly affect one’s quality of life. In these patients, decreased physical activity is linked to increased cardiovascular risk and higher rates of all-cause mortality. Exercise interventions can be effectively implemented even in the early stages after transplantation. Activities such as walking, aerobic exercises, resistance balance, and training exercises can be tailored to the patient’s abilities and gradually progress as they recover. The ideal frequency, intensity, duration, and type of exercise for kidney transplant recipients have yet to be fully established. However, aerobic, resistance, combined, balance, and flexibility exercises are feasible and safe at moderate intensity. Research indicates that a 3-month aerobic and resistance training program effectively enhances cardiorespiratory fitness in these patients. Improvements in physical fitness from exercise enable patients to maintain higher levels of physical activity. Each training program must be followed by a physical activity intervention that encourages adopting a lifelong, active lifestyle.
Post-transplant health for kidney recipients hinges on a multifaceted approach that includes careful diet, lifestyle, and physical activity management. While post-transplant medications are essential for preventing organ rejection, they increase susceptibility to infections, making supporting the body with a well-balanced diet rich in important nutrients vital. By incorporating various fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats into daily meals, kidney transplant recipients can enhance their recovery and overall health. Ensure you have regular follow-ups and check-ups to help your doctor monitor your health, evaluate your condition, and identify potential issues early.
Disclaimer: This information is provided by a qualified healthcare professional. However, it is essential to consult with family members and respective healthcare professionals before making any decisions regarding organ donation or transplantation.
Reference:
Cyrino LG, Galpern J, Moore L, Borgi L, Riella LV. A narrative review of dietary approaches for kidney transplant patients. Kidney International Reports. 2021 Jul 1;6(7):1764-74.
Post-op Kidney Transplant. UK Health Care [pdf on Internet]. Available from: https://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/sites/default/files/kidney-post-op-transplant-guide-2021.pdf
