About this topic
Some health problems cause the body to hold too much fluid. You may have problems with your heart, liver, or kidneys. This may cause you to keep too much fluid in your body. Then, you may have trouble breathing or feel short of breath. You may gain weight and your ankles may swell. Your doctor may suggest you limit the amount of fluids that you take in. This is a fluid restricted diet and may help lower the amount of fluid in your body. ‚
General
Your doctor may ask you to keep a record of how much you are drinking and how much urine you pass each day. This will help your doctor know if your body is getting rid of the right amount of fluid. ‚
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What will the results be?
Following a fluid restricted diet may help keep extra fluid from building up in the body. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Pour drinks into small cups. This helps to limit how much you drink.
- Cold drinks may help with thirst better than hot ones.
- Divide the liquids you are allowed throughout the day. Have them with meals and snacks.
- Take your drugs when you have your allowed drinks.
Who should use this diet?
This diet should only be used when ordered by your doctor. Your doctor will decide how much fluid is right for you. The amount of fluid is based on your size and health problems. ‚
What foods are good to eat?
Your doctor and dietitian will help you learn how much water and nutrients you may have in your diet. This will change as your fluid restriction changes. It is important to stay in close touch with your doctor. Ask your doctor or dietitian if there are any foods that are good for you to eat. ‚
What foods should be limited or avoided?
- Avoid salt. Using salt and eating foods with lots of salt can add to your thirst. Try other seasoning to help flavor foods.
- Some foods become liquid at room temperature or have fluids that are hidden. You should avoid:
- Ice cream, yogurt, jello
- Soups, sauces, gravy
- Watery fruits like watermelon, grapes, and grapefruit
- Popsicles, ice cubes
- Avoid soda pop. This is often high in sodium.
- Avoid beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol).
- Ask your doctor or dietitian if there are any foods you need to avoid.
Helpful tips
- Watch how much fluids you are taking in.
- Read food labels. Look for foods that say: low salt, low sodium, unsalted, or no salt added.
- Drain fluids from canned fruits and veggies before eating.
- Choose a water bottle with markings for volume to keep track of your fluid intake.
- Avoid becoming thirsty.
- Sucking on hard candy or chewing gum may help with a dry mouth.
- Use a mouth moisturizer to help with chapped lips.
- Take care of yourself.
- Make a menu in advance to help you carefully choose what to have in your diet.
- Keep a record of the food you eat. This will help you count the calories you are taking in.
- Take good care of your teeth and mouth. Use a mouth rinse to help with a dry mouth.
- Weigh yourself each day. Keep a record of your weight. Show this to your doctor.
- Avoid spending too much time in the sun.
Where can I learn more?
KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health ‚
http://www.kznhealth.gov.za/nutrition/food5.htm ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚