Hurray! My
potassium is now 5.0 – thanks to a reduced dose of Tacrolimus and a low
potassium diet. It did increase slightly from Monday’s lab results by 0.1, but
my nephrologist said that the difference is not significant enough to be of concern.
I am hoping
that with the reduced Tacrolimus, my potassium will continue to lower. For
now, I have been advised to maintain a low potassium diet – that means
forgoing my beloved tomatoes, avocados, and bananas. My cereal now has low potassium
almond milk with 1 teaspoon of sliced almonds. At least, I can have Honey Bunches
of Oats - until I have a chance to check the potassium content. Today, I had a half a bagel with
only cream cheese – I miss having tomatoes and avocado on it. That is one of my
guilty pleasures.
 |
| Balanced diet? Some phosphorus, Some potassium |
My
frustration is that dairy, which is high in phosphorus, is also high in potassium. Ice cream is the ultimate guilty pleasure for
me. I couldn’t have ice cream when I was on dialysis; I had to settle for a
sorbet when I wanted something cold for dessert, and I missed ice cream’s creaminess and sweetness.
When the dietician recommended that I have a huge ice cream sundae, we went
ahead and indulged in some ice cream bars and Haagen Daz. The dietician still
recommends that I continue with my ice cream habit, until my phosphorus rises;
unfortunately, it’s decreasing again!
At least,
my potassium is now within normal range, but still on the high side. Hopefully, with a semi-balanced diet, I can
tackle both Hyperkalemia, Hypophosphatemia, and any more Latin that they throw at me. Or is that Greek?
Hubby
thinks that the answer lies within peanut butter. I don't think he meant Peanut Butter Ice Cream.
Until my next
lab results!
