By far, the most difficult aspect of dialysis for me is the diet. Not everyone has the same restrictions, but I have restrictions on fluid, potassium, phosphorous, calcium and of course carbohydrates. I would say the things I avoid most are potatoes, bananas, lunch meat, hot dogs, cheese, milk and Tums antacid. Over the years, I have learned not to drink too much by eating as much ice as I want and only drinking a little with food and with medicine. I average gaining between 2 and 3 kg between dialysis days. Having said that, if I’m on a trip or visiting friends and family, I don’t follow the “rules” for one day. It seems to work as long as I get back on track the next day.