Take Your Renal Vitamins!

Why Renal Vitamins? Some vitamins are dialyzed out during treatment You may not be getting enough because you are avoiding some foods or have a poor appetite Vitamin deficiencies can lead to increased risk of infection and illness

Which Vitamins Are Important? B-Vitamins Vitamin C Many of these foods are high in potassium and/or phosphorous, so it is hard to eat enough of them on a renal diet. That is why it is important to take your renal vitamins.

Other Vitamins You May Need Vitamin D Calcium You may need extra vitamin D and calcium, but it is important to only take these vitamins if your kidney doctor prescribes them. Too much calcium or vitamin D can be harmful.

B Vitamins B vitamins are important for energy B vitamins include: – Thiamine (B1) – Riboflavin (B2) – Niacin (B3) – Pantothenic acid (B5) – B6 – Folate – B12 – Biotin

Vitamin C Vitamin C is important for immunity It helps to heal wounds and bruises It may help prevent you from getting sick

Vitamin D Vitamin D along with calcium helps keep your bones healthy Vitamin D may help protect against heart disease

1 is good, more is better? NO! Always take the recommended dose Taking too many vitamins can be harmful Ask your doctor about how much to take if you are unsure

Why can’t I take just any vitamin? You do not need too much vitamin A, E, or K You do not need too much potassium or phosphorous Most over the counter vitamins contain these vitamins & minerals in higher doses than are needed while on dialysis Taking these vitamins may be harmful

What about herbal supplements? NO! Most herbal supplements are processed by the kidneys With low kidney function, these substances can build up in the body and become toxic