Maintaining a healthy lifestyle on dialysis means following your treatment, eating right, managing fluids, staying active, and caring for your mental health. Small daily habits make a big difference in your wellbeing and quality of life.
Dialysis is a lifesaving treatment for people with kidney failure, but it’s just one part of managing your health. Living well on dialysis means embracing a healthy lifestyle that supports your body, mind, and spirit. While dialysis helps clean your blood, making good choices every day helps you feel better, stay strong, and enjoy life more fully.
- Follow Your Treatment Plan Closely
First and foremost, attending every dialysis session as scheduled is key. Missing treatments can lead to a buildup of waste and fluid in your body, causing complications. Work closely with your healthcare team — including your nephrologist, nurses, and dietitian — to understand your treatment plan and any changes that might be needed along the way.
- Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet
Nutrition plays a huge role in your wellbeing on dialysis. Since your kidneys are no longer able to filter waste and excess fluids properly, your diet helps control the buildup of harmful substances in your body. Common advice includes:
Limit sodium (salt): This helps prevent fluid retention and keeps your blood pressure in check.
Watch your potassium intake: Too much potassium can cause heart problems.
Manage phosphorus levels: High phosphorus can weaken your bones.
Eat enough protein: Dialysis removes protein from your blood, so it’s important to eat enough high-quality protein like lean meats, eggs, and dairy.
Working with a dietitian who understands dialysis nutrition will help you create a meal plan that meets your needs and tastes good.
- Stay Hydrated—But Not Too Much
Fluid management is another important part of life on dialysis. Your body can’t remove excess water like before, so drinking too much between sessions can cause swelling, high blood pressure, and shortness of breath. Your care team will give you guidance on how much fluid you can safely have each day. Keep track and stick to your limits.
- Get Moving
Physical activity can be very beneficial for dialysis patients. Even light exercises like walking, stretching, or gentle yoga can help improve your energy, mood, and overall health. Regular movement also supports your heart, muscles, and joints. Talk with your healthcare team before starting any new exercise routine to make sure it’s safe for you.
- Prioritize Rest and Mental Health
Dialysis treatments can be tiring, so make sure you get enough rest and sleep. Managing stress and emotional health is just as important. Many patients find support groups, counseling, or talking openly with family and friends helpful in coping with the challenges dialysis brings.
- Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Smoking can worsen kidney problems and increase the risk of heart disease. If you smoke, seek help to quit. Alcohol, in excess, can also affect your health and interfere with medications. Talk with your healthcare team about safe limits.
- Keep Regular Medical Checkups
Besides your dialysis sessions, regular checkups help monitor your overall health. This includes managing other conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure that impact your kidneys. Follow your doctor’s advice and report any new symptoms promptly.
Living with dialysis is a journey, but it’s one you don’t have to face alone. By following your treatment plan, eating well, staying active, and taking care of your emotional health, you can maintain a good quality of life and feel your best every day. Small, positive changes add up to big improvements in your health and wellbeing.
Remember, your healthcare team is here to support you—never hesitate to ask questions or seek help when you need it. Your kidneys may need help, but your spirit and strength can thrive.
At CuraKidney, we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way with compassionate care, expert guidance, and a community that truly understands your journey. Together, we help you live longer, healthier, and fuller lives.
