Which dietary component should be restricted for a patient taking sevelamer?

Sevelamer is a phosphate binder used primarily to manage hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). It works by binding to dietary phosphate in the intestine, thereby preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. Patients on sevelamer often have elevated phosphate levels due to their reduced kidney function, which is why it is crucial to restrict dietary phosphorus intake.

Restricting phosphorus is essential because excess phosphorus can lead to serious complications, such as vascular calcifications and bone disease. By managing phosphorus levels through dietary restriction and the use of sevelamer, healthcare providers aim to prevent these complications and promote overall cardiovascular and bone health in patients with kidney disease.

While the other dietary components such as carbohydrates, sodium, and proteins may also be important for various health conditions, they do not have the same direct relationship with sevelamer’s function and the primary concern of controlling phosphorus levels in patients receiving this medication. Therefore, the focus on phosphorus restriction is vital in conjunction with sevelamer therapy.