During kidney dialysis, I had to be careful with everything I consumed. Fluids were restricted, and foods high in potassium and phosphorus were mostly off the (dining) table. Who remembers learning about this phosphorus thing in school? I certainly didn’t.
Potassium meant saying goodbye to favorites like bananas, orange juice, and avocados. Phosphorus hides in potatoes, tomatoes, and yes, even avocados (again). Holy guacamole, am I right? It also shows up in dark colas, except root beer, so my beloved Coke Zero was decreased to me enjoying Coke-0-Saturdays™.
After my kidney transplant, things changed for the better. Suddenly. I was low on phosphorus, and even my nurse coordinator encouraged me to drink more dark colas. I’ll follow those orders. Magnesium is another nutrient I tend to run low on, so I take medication and try to add more of it into my diet.
The best part is that my water restriction is gone. Now I am encouraged to drink plenty of water and other fluids, which feels like such a relief. A relief that is, until it is bedtime and my kidney decides it is time to ‘relieve’ myself of all the liquid I consumed that day.
Between not eating much of the hospital meals and my mom’s home cooking, I even managed to lose some weight and reach my personal goal. That unexpected bonus has made this journey a little sweeter.
Chips & guacamole anyone?
