The Mid-Autumn Festival is almost here. Dr. Su and the team would like to say in advance: Happy Mid-Autumn Festival.
Listening to patients over the years, we have noticed that feelings about holidays are often a little mixed. You may want to share a good meal with your family and enjoy a barbecue, yet worry that your dietary limits will dampen everyone’s mood; and some patients still have dialysis scheduled on the holiday and spend the whole morning or afternoon in treatment. Whichever applies to you, we hope you can enjoy this Mid-Autumn Festival with a little more ease and without putting too much pressure on yourself.
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Eating: a few key points
The hardest part of the holiday is usually the food. You do not have to give up everything; just keep these in mind:
- Pomelo and grapefruit-type fruits: their potassium is not low, so one or two segments to enjoy the taste are enough. Also, grapefruit-type fruits may interact with some blood pressure and cholesterol medicines, and the effect can sometimes last several days, so if you take such medicines, it is safer to ask your care staff first.
- Barbecue: marinades and barbecue sauces contain a fair amount of sodium, and processed meats such as sausages and meatballs often contain added phosphates. Choosing fresh meat, using less sauce, and pairing it with blanched vegetables makes the load lighter.
- Mooncakes: egg-yolk, nut and bean-paste fillings are all substantial, so there is no need to finish one by yourself. Cut it into small portions and share it with family and friends, and you still get all the flavor.
- Drinks and soups: with soup and tea cup after cup at a gathering, fluid intake adds up without notice, and the phosphorus in soda and cola is not low either. Remember to keep track of your daily fluid allowance.
Everyone’s test values and medication are different. The above is general advice; if you are unsure, ask your physician or dietitian at your next visit.
Around the holiday, pay extra attention to your dialysis access
For your dialysis access, feel for the thrill and listen for the sound every day, and do not let this habit lapse because of the holiday. If you notice swelling or pain in the arm, or can no longer feel the usual thrill, contact the dialysis care team as soon as possible.
Finally, we wish you and your family a happy Mid-Autumn Festival. If the weather is good tonight, remember to look up at the moon.
