Which diet would be appropriate for a patient in acute renal failure to manage electrolyte balance?

Which diet would be appropriate for a patient in acute renal failure to manage electrolyte balance?

• A. High protein, low carbohydrate, low sodium, low potassium.
• B. Low protein, high carbohydrate, low sodium, high potassium.
• C. High protein, low carbohydrate, low sodium, high potassium.
• D. Low protein, high carbohydrate, low sodium, low potassium.

Answer: (D)

In acute renal failure, the goal is to reduce kidney workload and prevent dangerous electrolyte shifts by balancing protein, calories, and electrolytes. A diet with low protein minimizes nitrogenous waste and urea production, while calories come mainly from carbohydrates to meet energy needs without increasing kidney waste. Sodium is kept low to help control fluid balance and blood pressure, and potassium is kept low to avoid hyperkalemia since the damaged kidneys can’t excrete potassium effectively. This combination—low protein, high carbohydrate, low sodium, and low potassium—best supports these needs. Plans with high protein raise waste, while those with high potassium or inadequate electrolyte restrictions increase risk of complications.

In acute renal failure, the goal is to reduce kidney workload and prevent dangerous electrolyte shifts by balancing protein, calories, and electrolytes. A diet with low protein minimizes nitrogenous waste and urea production, while calories come mainly from carbohydrates to meet energy needs without increasing kidney waste. Sodium is kept low to help control fluid balance and blood pressure, and potassium is kept low to avoid hyperkalemia since the damaged kidneys can’t excrete potassium effectively. This combination—low protein, high carbohydrate, low sodium, and low potassium—best supports these needs. Plans with high protein raise waste, while those with high potassium or inadequate electrolyte restrictions increase risk of complications.