Fluid Restriction

When the kidneys are not working properly, they are unable to maintain normal fluid and electrolyte levels. This can cause swelling, puffiness, difficulty breathing and high blood pressure. Fluid restriction may be necessary to relieve these symptoms and restore fluid levels to normal. There is no specific fluid intake recommendation for people with kidney failure. Instead, fluid restriction is based on an individual's kidney function, weight changes and presence of swelling and puffiness. In addition to restricting beverages, people on fluid restriction must also limit their intake of soup, gelatin, ice cream, coffee creamer, pudding, yogurt, custard and Popsicles.

Sodium Restriction

Kidney failure makes it difficult for the body to maintain normal levels of sodium. Sodium can also contribute to fluid retention, which can be a problem for people with kidney failure. Limit consumption of high-sodium cookings such as bouillon cubes, luncheon meats, bacon, potato chips, table salt, salted nuts, cheese, canned soups, frozen meals and canned vegetables. Herbs and seasonings that do not contain sodium can be used in place of table salt and seasonings that are high in sodium. Lemon can also be used to flavor food without adding additional sodium.

Potassium Restriction

Potassium is necessary for proper heart, muscle and nerve function. However, kidney dysfunction can cause potassium levels to become too high, which can cause the heart to stop or beat irregularly. Potassium restriction may be necessary to prevent this from happening. Avoid consumption of foods that are high in potassium, including bananas, oranges, chocolate, broccoli, raisins, apricots, cantaloupe, tomatoes, coffee, prunes, bran products, mushrooms and greens. Low-potassium foods can be eaten instead. Alternatives with lower potassium include watermelon, cranberries, carrots, cherries, beans, apples, rice, noodles, grapes, cucumbers, onions and pears.

Phosphorus Restriction

Phosphorus works with calcium to keep the bones strong. It is also needed for normal muscle function, healthy teeth and normal nerve function. However, kidney failure makes it difficult for the body to maintain normal levels of phosphorus and calcium. This results in increased phosphorus levels and decreased calcium levels. If phosphorus restriction becomes necessary, avoid foods that are high in phosphorus. Examples of phosphorus-rich foods include ice cream, chicken liver, caramel, nuts, cheese, cola beverages, peanut butter, sardines, beef liver and beer. Alternatives with lower levels of phosphorus include hard candies, zucchini, sherbet, broccoli, non-dairy milk substitutes and non-cola soft drinks such as lemon lime or orange soda.

Protein Restriction

Protein metabolism creates waste products known as urea. Kidneys with normal function are able to filter urea out of the blood and excrete it into the urine. People with kidney failure have difficulty filtering urea from the blood, so it builds up in the bloodstream. If urea levels are high, protein restriction may be necessary to decrease the workload of the kidneys and restore urea levels to normal. Avoid high-protein foods such as milk products, meat, eggs and poultry. Eat grains, vegetables and fresh beans instead to maintain a healthful diet without increasing the workload of the kidneys.