Having kidney problems can create certain restrictions in your life and it may seem that it is all out of your control. One of the ways you can make a difference is by taking some responsibility for your own health. High blood pressure often affects those with kidney problems, and it may seem all you can do is to keep taking the tablets. Even if you do not have high blood pressure the following advice is good for everyone and anyone.

So why does high blood pressure matter?

It increases your risk of coronary heart disease
It increases your risk of renal failure
If you are diabetic your risks are even higher for heart disease and stroke
It can cause premature aging of your blood vessels
High blood pressure increases your risk of heart attack, stroke and heart failure

What can I do about it?

SMOKING - STOP
SALT IN DIET - REDUCE
WEIGHT CONTROL - MANAGE
GOOD SUGAR CONTROL - MAINTAIN (for diabetics)
EXERCISE - REGULAR
ALCOHOL - SENSIBLE

Stopping smoking
- help can be sought from NHS Shetland Health Improvement at Brevik House in Lerwick, telephone 01595 743084
Reducing the amount of salt in your diet should be easy to do and every little helps
- Do not add salt at the table
- Avoid processed foods
- Cook from fresh
Diet and exercise
- a little exercise everyday will go a long way to keeping you healthy
- Eat sensibly: limit foods which are high in saturated fats or sugars
- Limit your alcohol intake
- do not exceed the recommended weekly alcohol allowance which is 14 units for women and 21 units for men

High blood pressure is a risk factor that you can do something about

Controlling your blood pressure can significantly reduce your risk of stroke

Recipe - Lemon Cheesecake

this recipe is intended for patients who are receiving dialysis

Method

Melt the margarine in a saucepan.
Remove from the heat and add the crushed biscuits and a little powdered sweetener if wanted.
Mix well and turn into a 7 inch flan tin or dish 1 and 1/2 inches deep. Press the mixture firmly around the sides and base, then chill for half an hour.
Beat the cheese, lemon juice and zest in a bowl until smooth - add sweetener to taste.
Put the water into a small saucepan, sprinkle on the gelatine and leave until it turns spongy. Place over a low heat, stirring all the time until the gelatine has dissolved. Strain the gelatine into the cheese mixture, stirring continuously. Whip the double cream until it is just stiff and fold this into the cheese mixture. Turn it all into the crumb lined tin and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

This recipe was taken from www.kidneypatientguide.org.uk. Please visit their site for more delicious recipes!