Low Sodium Phosphorous Potassium Protein Diet

The use of a low-sodium, -phosphorous, -potassium, -protein (LSPPP) diet is commonly used in the treatment of individuals who have renal failure. Renal failure (or renal disease) refers to any condition affecting the functionality of the kidneys. Although renal problems cannot be corrected through dietary means, adherence to an LSPPP diet can help to relieve a measure of stress from the kidneys, extending their useful life and improving the quality of life for the patient.

Reducing Sodium

Reduce sodium in your diet to less than 2,000 mg per day while following a LSPPP diet. Accomplish this by restricting your use of table salt, along with avoiding high-sodium meats and other foods such as ham, bacon, lunchmeat, other types of cured meat, canned goods, processed items, and frozen items. All of these foods contain salt used as a preservative, so avoid them entirely if your goal is to limit your overall sodium intake. Furthermore, you should also act to restrict your intake of salty foods and snack items such as pretzels and potato chips; choose low-sodium items when possible or avoid these foods altogether.

Reducing Protein

Limit your protein intake to no more than 0.6kg per pound of body weight per day. Thus, a 200-lb individual could only consume roughly 55 grams of protein per day. Accomplish this by restricting your intake of meat and dairy--include two high protein food sources, the consumption of which should be heavily curtailed to meet your protein goals. Keep a log tabulating your overall protein intake for the day, checking nutritional information and remembering to count even the trace amounts of protein present in fruits, vegetables and other items.

Reducing Potassium and Phosphorous

Reduce potassium and phosphorous by eliminating consumption of foods that are rich in these items. Foods high in potassium and phosphorous include colas, nuts, caramels, ice cream, beer, cheeses, nut butters, sardines, broccoli, bananas, raisins, mushrooms, coffee, oranges, potatoes, chocolate, apricots, tomatoes and cantaloupe. Instead of these items, eat beans, apples, berries, lettuce, carrots, pears, watermelon, onions and grapes. Making these simple substitutions will minimize the amount of potassium and phosphorous in your diet, helping you to comply with the needed restrictions.