What is constipation? Constipation is when you open your bowels (poo) less than usual or you are having a difficult time trying to push out a bowel motion (poo). What are the signs and symptoms of constipation? You may notice that your bowel motions become very large, hard, dry or lumpy. A normal bowel motion is one that is smooth … Read More
Increasing Magnesium in your diet
Introduction You have been asked to increase the amount of magnesium in your diet as your blood levels of magnesium have been found to be low. This information leaflet will give you ideas on how to increase the amount of magnesium in your diet. What is magnesium and why do we need it? Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral that … Read More
Folate Information for Renal Patients – Information to increase folate in your diet
Folic acid Folic acid, known as folate in its natural form, is one of the B-group vitamins. Folate works together with vitamin B12 to form healthy red blood cells. A lack of folate can lead to folate deficiency anaemia. How much folate do I need? Adults need 0.2mg (milligrams) of folate a day. Folate cannot be stored in the body so you … Read More
A Nourishing Guide for Kidney Patients
Introduction Often people with kidney problems have a reduced appetite. There are many reasons for a poor appetite; it can be due to tiredness, taste changes or feeling sick. This can cause you to lose weight. If you are unable to eat enough, it is important to plan how to get the nutrition you need. A nutritious diet can: Help … Read More
Guide to a Low Potassium Diet
The aim of this leaflet is to provide information on the potassium content of foods and drinks that will help you to control your potassium level. Introduction Potassium is a mineral found in many foods and drinks. It is required to ensure healthy functioning muscles, including your heart muscle. Your kidneys normally control the levels of potassium in your blood. … Read More
A Guide to a Low Phosphate Diet – Improving your understanding of following a low phosphate diet
Introduction This leaflet is for anyone who has been advised that they need to follow a low phosphate diet. What is phosphate? Phosphate is a mineral found in many foods and drinks. It helps to build healthy bones and teeth. Healthy kidneys usually filter and get rid of excess phosphate from the blood and help to keep the phosphate levels … Read More
Guide to a Low Potassium and Low Phosphate Diet
Introduction The aim of this leaflet is to provide information on the potassium and phosphate content of foods and drinks that will help you to control your blood levels. What are potassium and phosphate? Potassium and phosphate are minerals found in a range of foods and drinks. Why are the levels in my blood too high? Healthy kidneys normally control … Read More
Hepatitis B Vaccination
Introduction This leaflet is about the hepatitis B vaccination. It gives information on what hepatitis B is, the benefits and risks of having the vaccination and the injection schedule for the vaccine. What is Hepatitis B? Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is spread from person to person through blood … Read More
Welcome to Ward 39 (Cardiology)
Introduction This leaflet has been produced to give you general information about your stay on Ward 39. Most of your questions should be answered by this leaflet. It is not intended to replace the discussion between you and your healthcare team, but may act as a starting point for discussion. If after reading it you have any concerns or require … Read More