For some people it is the need to cut back on drinks that is the worst thing about dialysis diets and for others it might be the ban on snacks like crisps and peanuts.
For the chocoholic however it is their favourite comfort food which received the thumbs down, especially difficult during the Easter season when chocolate comes in even more tempting shapes and sizes! So why is it such a problem food?
The general public is aware of the high sugar and saturated fat content of chocolate, which gives it the ‘naughty but nice’ reputation. One of its constituents causes the release of serotonin in the body which makes the eater feel calm and mellow, hence its addictive quality.
A recently exposed myth is that chocolate is useful for diabetics with a ‘hypo’ (low blood sugar). It is now known to have a low ‘glycaemic index’ ie it is slow to raise blood sugar, and is therefore not suitable for this purpose.
The particular drawback for those on dialysis diets, however, is the high potassium and phosphate content, not only of cocoa-derived chocolate but also of that made from carob. If you have iron self control, a small portion of a biscuit bar with just a thin coating of chocolate should not do much damage. Those unable to resist a little more though, and needing a low potassium diet, should be very aware of the need to cut back on the potassium content of the rest of their diet eg by replacing potatoes with rice, pasta, noodles or cous-cous that day, to allow for a little ‘cheating’!
Also remember to take your usual phosphate binder with the chocolate snack (if you are prescribed them). So if a low potassium alternative to chocolate (such as jelly babies, marshmallows or mints) just won’t do, you need to be very self disciplined in having just a little or satisfy your urge by making suitable swaps.
Please check with your own renal dietician how much chocolate you are allowed.
The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided. The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor.
Page created: 22 January 2005
Last updated: 6 May 2008
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