On Dialysis? How to Keep Hydrated This Summer

When you’re on dialysis, you’ve got to get creative when it comes to quenching your thirst on a hot summer day. Too much liquid in your diet can create problems that can interfere with digestion and lead to serious complications. Fortunately, there are ways to stay hydrated without drinking a lot of fluids.

Eat Less Sodium

Salty foods make you thirsty, so steer clear of things like chips, canned soups, and fast food. Instead, choose Dialysis-Friendly meals by MagicKitchen.com that are low in sodium and made from fresh ingredients.

Brush Your Teeth

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day. But if you’re feeling extra thirsty, giving your chompers an extra polish can help. A little toothpaste and water in your mouth will help you feel refreshed and less likely to gulp down a glass of water.

Snack on Frozen Fruit/Cold Vegetables
Fruits like grapes, blueberries, strawberries and cherries all contain water. But instead of eating it fresh, try these fruits frozen. They’ll slowly melt in your mouth, satisfy your thirst, and help you stay hydrated without adding a lot of fluids to your diet. Fridge-chilled vegetables like cucumber slices, red bell peppers, radishes and snow peas can help satisfy your thirst too. Just don’t add salt, try lemon or lime juice instead.

Add Fresh Mint to Foods
Another way to help you stay hydrated without going overboard on fluids is adding fresh mint to foods. It’s often used add flavor to things like salads, sandwiches, and side dishes. A little mint helps your mouth feel fresh and helps you avoid drinking too many liquids.

Make Gelatin Squares

Eating flavored gelatin is another way you can get the fluids you need without over-hydrating. Eat small spoonfuls of gelatin, or freeze small gelatin squares and enjoy. You’ll be adding liquid to your diet, but not too much.

Keep Cool
When Mother Nature shows up with a heat wave, keeping cool can help you control your thirst and prevent dehydration. Stay indoors where it’s cool on hot days, or visit a mall or movie theater with air conditioning.

Managing your health when you’re on dialysis is more than just waiting for your next appointment. Your food choices, lifestyle habits, and efforts to stay hydrated without consuming too many liquids make a big difference.