Renal Nutrition Counseling
Who Can Benefit from a Renal Nutrition Consult?
With a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease, people can often feel overwhelmed. The best referral a nephrologist or primary care doctor can provide for his/her patient is to meet with a renal dietitian for nutrition. Nutrition needs are individualized and can vary greatly between patients, depending on the degree or severity of the kidney disease.
Initial Consultation:
During your first appointment, we’ll discuss your goals, objectives, and reasons for wanting to see a nutritionist. We will review your medical history, including medications and supplements. You may be asked to keep a food diary for two to three days prior to your appointment.
Included:
Assessment of the patient's current physical condition and nutritional status
Discussion of what the patient likes to eat as well as their past and current eating habits
Review of current lab work
Determine and prioritize the patient's nutritional needs
Education related to diet, nutrition, medical conditions and the state of the patient's health
Follow-Up Consultation:
Most patients come in for two to three sessions. If you are ready to make diet and lifestyle changes, that is often enough to start you on the right path. Some people may wish to schedule yearly follow-up visits to assess progress towards their goals.
Follow-up on lab results and patient health:
Explain the relationship of the lab values to the food the patient has been eating
Review food and fluid intake and make recommendations, if necessary
Review vitamin supplements and medications such as phosphorus binders and active vitamin D
Consult with the physician regarding adjustments that may be needed
Provide advice on protein and/or calorie supplements, if necessary
Analyze trends over time to determine how the patient is responding
Provide educational materials
