b'SPECIALTY CARE Renal Cooking Classes For people with chronic kidney disease or end stage renal disease, healthy eating is especially important. Good nutrition provides the energy necessary for daily tasks, prevents infection and helps maintain muscle mass and a healthy weight. To stay healthy, patients undergoing dialysis must watch their sodium, potassium, phosphorus and electrolyte levels while eating enough healthy protein and calories to fuel their body. Often, patients undergoing dialysis are from underserved communities with food deserts, shares June Thompson MS, RD, LDN, FAND, a registered dietitian with the South Greensboro Kidney Center, who hosts THN-led Renal Cooking Classes. Since kidney dialysis treatments are time consuming and exhausting, making healthy meals that require extensive ingredients or preparation can be challenging.According to Thompson, many default to fast food or convenience foods. Others struggle to make inexpensive meals that also appeal to family members. Some need basic cooking instruction or nutrition education. Renal cooking classes take place at the MedCenter Greensboro at Drawbridge Parkway. Thanks to Thompsons virtual Renal Cooking Class patients can learn how to make tasty, easy and culturally relevant meals that meet their specialized dietary needs. As part of the cooking class, I encourage patients to make healthy lifestyle changes and choices. By sharing recipes in advance, keeping ingredients and preparation simple, and walking through the steps, I can help empower participants to give their favorite foods a healthy makeover. June Thompson MS, RD, LDN, FAND 18'