Post-Transplant diet

One of the benefits of a successful kidney transplant is that you can enjoy a more varied diet.

Potassium

Successful transplants should mean that your previous potassium restriction is relaxed. Your dietitian and doctor can further advise you about how to reintroduce high potassium foods, such as bananas, coffee, nuts and chocolate. When you have been advised you can reintroduce potassium containing foods, be sure to do this gradually for example, one new item a day and not everything all at once.

Phosphate

Phosphate binders are stopped after a kidney transplant and you should no longer need to follow a phosphate restriction.

Calcium

Long term steroid use can weaken your bones and increase the risk of fractures. Sufficient calcium intake may help prevent this. Good sources of calcium include milk, cheese, yoghurts, tofu, calcium-enriched soya products (choose lower fat options if you are conscious of your weight).

Salt

Continuing to follow a no added salt diet is recommended to help prevent high blood pressure. Avoid adding salt when cooking or at the table, instead you could try using pepper, herbs, spices, lemon juice, vinegar etc which will not affect your blood pressure.

Grapefruit

After a transplant you should avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice because grapefruit interferes with the levels of the anti-rejection medication. You should also check things which may contain grapefruit such as mixed fruit juices.