Dialysis is a procedure that clears the blood of waste products and fluids in people who have kidney failure. Fluids and waste products build up inside a person from the end of one dialysis treatment until the next treatment. (Treatments are usually two to three days apart). Because all the waste products and fluid must be removed during dialysis, it is important to limit how much fluid you drink and certain foods.

In general, people on dialysis should limit all liquids to no more than about 1.5 quarts (1.5 liters) per day. If greater amounts need to be removed during dialysis, it often will lead to low blood pressure and cramping.

People on dialysis should eat low-sodium, heart-healthy foods. They also need to limit intake of high-potassium foods (such as fruits, nuts and potatoes) because life -threatening heart problems can develop with elevated potassium levels in the blood. Ask your dialysis nurse or dietician if you are uncertain about how much is safe for you.