“So what are these foods I should be avoiding?” I hear you ask. Whilst this list provides some of foods that may put you into danger zone, it is by no means a comprehensive list. It should also be noted here that very few foods should be considered completely “off limits”, just because you are on dialysis, doesn’t mean that your life must stop and that you shouldn’t be able to enjoy some of it’s finer offerings.

The list: All meats, poultry and fish,. apricots (fresh more so than canned), avocado, banana, cantaloupe, honeydew, Kiwi Fruit, lima beans, milk, oranges and orange juice, potatoes, prunes, spinach, tomatoes, vegetables and vegetable juice .

Your next question should be: “But that seems like a lot of vegetables, what can I do to lower potassium level in vegetables?” I’m glad you asked again! To lower content in vegetables, simply cut vegetables up into small pieces, and boil them well in a saucepan then drain them thoroughly.

Hopefully this has given you some idea of what symptoms to look out for, what foods to avoid, and generally how to live with a low potassium diet. For more information, talk to your dietician, clinical nurse, or doctor.

+ Some skin care products contain humectants. Humectants are substances which attract water to skin to hold in moisture. Vegetable glycerine, vitamin B5 and vitamin E are all natural humectants.

+ Some skin care products also contain herbs. Comfrey, chickweed, calendula and aloe vera may help relieve dry skin when applied daily. Sometimes skin care products will contain both humectants and herbs. This is a great choice. Put on your dry skin areas at least twice a day.