Counseling patients with renal disease can be quite challenging. Not only do these patients have kidney impairment, but they frequently possess other comorbid conditions as well. These patients are often asked to follow complicated treatment regimens, including detailed medication schedules. Moreover, many patients present with malaise, anemia, depression, and a whole host of other problems. At times, the entire treatment plan can seem overwhelming and restrictive to the patient. Presenting food options in a positive way is often greatly appreciated. Although frequently necessary, when we provide our patients with lists of foods to avoid, they may lament, “There’s nothing I can eat!” Invariably, their next thought is “What CAN I eat?”
The following reproducible educational materials attempt to alleviate some of the aforementioned problems by providing renal patients with foods that are allowed on their diets. For specific patient needs and to minimize the number of items that you need to cross out or add, we have developed two handouts: one for diabetics and one for nondiabetics. The forms can also be customized to meet individualized needs. For example, there are spaces for you to write in the number of servings per day that you would like your patient to consume from each category.
Many patients and family members find this format very easy to use. For example, some patients find this list convenient to use as a grocery list. Others ask for additional copies to provide to family members/friends who are trying to accommodate their dietary needs during special events and holidays. These food lists also can help you assist patients with recipe development and meal planning. Overall, we have found that providing patients with food that they can eat promotes healthy eating in a very straightforward, positive way. We hope you find these lists helpful as well.
2 This Patient Information Forum may be photocopied for the purpose of distribution to patients only, but not for any other purposes, such as copying for general distribution, for advertising or promotional purposes, for creating new collective works, or for resale.
Professional review and adaptation before patient use is encouraged. Email: Tracy_T_Chivari@rush.edu
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