Patients With Kidney Diseases Can Fast? This Is What Doctors Say

JAKARTA - Kidney disease is a disorder in the kidney organ which causes its function to be disrupted, and if it is not treated properly it can cause complications of other diseases. Therefore, taking regular medication and implementing healthy life is very important for kidney disease patients.

This must also be done during the month of Ramadan, if the patient wants to fast. Patients with kidney disease who wish to fast must first consult a doctor, in order to maintain safety.

"Yes, but you have to consult the doctor first and it must be according to the stages," said the Internal Medicine Specialist in Kidney Consultant and Hypertension, dr. Tunggul D. Situmorang, Sp.PD-KGH, in Senayan, Jakarta, on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

Before starting fasting Ramadan, patients with kidney disease are actually advised to fast first. This is done to see if the patient's body can survive fasting well or not.

"It is recommended that you fast one week before Ramadan, to see whether or not you can (fast)," he said.

If doctors have allowed fasting and the body is in good condition, then during fasting there are various things that must be considered. Starting from consuming enough water for kidney disease patients during sahur and breaking the fast, to avoiding high food potassium.

"Consumption of sufficient water during sahur and breaking the fast, so as not to become dehydrated. Consumption of a balanced diet, contains protein, carbohydrates, fats, and fiber. At dawn and iftar, avoid foods that are high in potassium," he explained.

Not only that, the medicines that must be regularly consumed must still be consumed, by changing schedules, namely at dawn and breaking the fast. If the patient suddenly experiences problems during fasting, it is advisable to immediately check with a doctor.

"The existing medicines must still be eaten according to regulations, every sahur or at every breaking the fast. If you experience any condition, immediately consult a doctor," concluded Doctor Tunggul.