What type of supplementation is required during hemodialysis?

Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and folic acid are vital during hemodialysis because individuals with kidney disease often experience deficiencies due to the body's reduced ability to store and utilize these vitamins. Hemodialysis can remove water-soluble vitamins from the bloodstream, necessitating supplementation to maintain adequate levels for metabolic processes, including red blood cell production and amino acid metabolism.

Vitamin D3 supplementation is also critical because patients on hemodialysis are at high risk for vitamin D deficiency due to impaired kidney function, which affects the conversion of vitamin D into its active form. Supplementing vitamin D3 supports bone health and helps manage calcium levels, further reducing the risk of secondary hyperparathyroidism.

In contrast, while vitamin C and calcium are important for overall health, they do not specifically address the unique deficiencies faced by patients undergoing dialysis. Iron and magnesium might be relevant, but iron is typically monitored and supplemented only as needed due to the risk of overload. Vitamin E and zinc could help with oxidative stress and immune function, but they are not routinely required in the same way as the B vitamins and vitamin D for hemodialysis patients.