HMC dietitian advises dialysis patients to eat healthily during Ramadan

During Ramadan, dialysis patients should pay close attention to the food they eat to stay healthy when fasting, according to Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) Nutrition Supervisor, Mr. Ghazi Dararkeh.

“Patients on dialysis can face health problems during Ramadan if they fail to follow a healthy diet and fast correctly,” said Mr. Dararkeh.

“It is important that they are aware of what constitutes a healthy diet and what does not. I would advise any dialysis patients who are unsure of the best foods to eat to consult with their dietitian for advice before fasting,” explained Mr. Dararkeh.

The HMC dietitian offered the following tips and advice for fasting dialysis patients during Ramadan:

• Eat enough protein each day at Iftar and Suhoor as advised by your dietitian.
• Follow the basic rules of good nutrition and consume fluids only within the recommended limits i.e. around one liter to one and half liters per day to prevent dehydration. It is also important to ensure that food is not too salty to avoid high blood pressure and feeling thirsty when fasting.
• Avoid potassium-rich foods like dates, bananas, oranges, mangoes, tomatoes, potatoes and okras which are frequently eaten during Ramadan.
• Avoid potassium-rich juices and drinks such as Kamaruddin, orange and mango juices etc.
• Try to eat non-fatty dishes and ensure food is cooked in a healthy way by boiling and grilling rather than frying.
• Ensure moderation when eating nut-rich desserts such as Kataef, which should not be consumed on a daily basis.
• Consume sources of calcium in the required quantities on a daily basis to maintain healthy bones.