The problematic world of following a renal diet outside the home

Background
Individuals on peritoneal dialysis are given dietary advice to help reduce disease morbidity and mortality. However, the experience of people who have been given this advice is not well researched.

Objective
To understand the experiences of individuals on peritoneal dialysis when following dietary advice.

Method
A phenomenological approach, using semi-structured in-depth interviews was used to understand the experiences of ten service-users of the renal dietetic service. Data were analysed using Framework Analysis.

Findings
One theme emerged around difficulty when eating outside the home. Individuals experienced negative emotions when following advice. Individuals ate foods reluctantly, offered excuses as to why meals could not be eaten, or in extreme cases did not attend certain social gatherings in order to avoid the perceived attention and judgement from fellow guests related to their food choices.

Conclusion
A renal diet for peritoneal dialysis may be difficult to follow outside the home. Further support around eating in social situations may need to be offered when giving dietary advice.