[Vera Bradley]

Unfortunately, nutritionists aren't necessarily versed in good cooking, so if I ask about a particular food or ingredient, say flax seeds, maple syrup or radicchio, it's unusual to get a straight answer.

Please consider a phone or email consultation with a renal dietician rather than a nutritionist or even a regular dietician. Explain what you are doing and that you are unfamiliar with the renal diet. Believe me, these specialists will want to help you protect the patient. Check with a large hospital. Your best bet will be a teaching hospital with a kidney transplant program.

Or least read some of the literature that renal dieticians provide to their patients. The people who selected you for this project can get it for you, and will probably be happy that you are so conscientious.

I know it's frustrating for the cook, but the issue goes beyond good cooking or good taste. The renal dietician's first consideration will always be which ingredients may help or harm the renal patient's health - and that can vary by individual. Even daily fluid amounts are restricted, and that includes the water used in soups or gelatin salads or desserts. That is an example of why this diet is so challenging.

But there are some foods and ingredients that should usually be avoided by all renal patients. I've copied a list for you:

Diabetic Diet for the Predialysis Renal Patient

Beverages or liquids not allowed:
• Milk
• V-8 juice
• Tomato juice
• Colas
• Milkshakes

Spices not permitted:
• Onion salt
• Garlic salt
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Fish sauce
• Anchovies
• Capers
• Bouillon
• Anything with MSG
• Ketchup
• Steak sauce
• Regular salad dressing

You may not eat:
• Sugar
• Honey
• Jelly
• Jam
• Mints
• Hard candy
• Chewing gum
• Syrup
• Ice cream or sherbet
• Oatmeal
• Milk
• Ham
• Sausage
• Corned beef
• Potato chips
• Cheese
• Beans or legumes
• Canned soups
• Desserts made with milk
• Yogurt
• Pizza
• Liver
• Nuts
• Chocolate
• Sardines
• Chinese food


What is the difference between a hemodialysis and predialysis diet?

Hemodialysis
• Protein intake of 1.2 g/kg per day
• Sodium intake of 2 grams per day
• Potassium intake of 2 grams per day
• Phosphorus intake of 1 gram per day
• Fluid intake (depending on urine output) of around 5 cups per day

Predialysis
• Protein intake of 0.6 g/kg per day
• Sodium intake of 2 to 3 grams per day
• If protein intake is low, phosphorus intake will be low.
• High calorie intake from carbohydrates and polyunsaturated fats
• No potassium or fluid restriction