Kidney disease is a common problem for about 10% of the world's people with kidney disease
Kidneys are small but powerful bean-like organs that perform many important functions.
They are responsible for filtering waste, releasing hormones that regulate blood pressure, balancing fluids in the body, producing urine, and many other essential tasks.
These vital organs can be damaged in various ways.
Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common risk factors that people with kidney disease face. However, obesity, smoking, genetics, gender and age can also increase the risk.
Uncontrolled blood sugar and high blood pressure can damage the kidneys' blood vessels, which reduces their ability to function optimally.
When the kidneys are not working properly, waste products accumulate in the blood, including those from food.
Therefore, it is necessary for people with kidney disease to follow a special diet.
Diet and people with kidney disease
Diet is very important for people with kidney disease. What you eat can cause, prevent, and even help reduce pain and symptoms. A dietitian can help determine the right diet for each patient, but there are foods that are nutritious, low in potassium, taste great, and are good for everyone.
Dietary restrictions vary depending on the degree of kidney damage.
For example, people in the early stages of kidney disease have different restrictions than people with kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
If you have kidney disease, your health care provider will determine the dietary needs that are best for you.
For most people with end-stage kidney disease, it is important to follow a kidney-friendly diet that helps reduce the amount of waste in the blood.
This diet is often referred to as the kidney diet.
It helps to improve kidney function while preventing further damage.
While dietary restrictions vary, it is usually recommended that all people with kidney disease limit the following nutrients
- Sodium. Sodium is found in many foods and a major component of table salt. Impaired kidneys are unable to filter out excess sodium, causing their blood levels to rise. It is often recommended that to limit sodium to less than 2,000 mg per day.
- Potassium. Potassium plays many key roles in the body. roles, but those with kidney disease need to limit potassium to avoid dangerously high blood to avoid dangerously high blood levels. It is often recommended that potassium be limited to potassium to less than 2,000 mg per day.
- Phosphorus. Impaired kidneys cannot remove excess phosphorus, a mineral found in many foods. High levels of phosphorus can cause damage to the body, so dietary phosphorus is limited to less than 800-1,000 mg per day in most patients.
Protein is another nutrient that may need to be limited in patients with kidney disease because the damaged kidneys cannot remove the waste products produced by protein metabolism.
However, those with end-stage renal disease who are on dialysis (a treatment that filters and cleans the blood) have greater protein needs.
Every person with kidney disease is different, which is why it's important to discuss your individual dietary needs with your healthcare provider.
Fortunately, many delicious and healthy choices are low in phosphorus, potassium and sodium.
1. Cabbage is good for people with kidney disease
This cruciferous vegetable is rich in phytochemicals that are both filling and nutritious. Great in soups, salads, or even on its own with salt and pepper.
2. Red pepper is superfood for people with kidney disease
Also low in potassium, but very strong in flavor. Including red peppers in your recipes can add flavor and nutrition.
3. Cauliflower is superfood for people with kidney disease
Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, folic acid and fiber, which helps your body fight off toxins. Eaten raw, steamed or in soup, this superfood tastes delicious. When steamed and mashed, it can be used as an alternative to mashed potatoes and is good for people with kidney disease.
One cup (124 grams) of cooked cauliflower contains:
- sodium: 19 mg
- potassium: 176 mg
- phosphorus: 40 mg
4. Blueberries are superfoods for people with kidney disease
Low in potassium and high in antioxidants, these sweet berries are an anti-inflammatory food that happens to taste great, too.
One cup (148 grams) of fresh blueberries contains:
- sodium: 1.5 mg
- potassium: 114 mg
- phosphorus: 18 mg
5. Egg whites are superfoods for people with kidney disease
A low-potassium source of protein, egg whites are perfect for kidney patients who want the occasional omelette or fried egg option.
Two large egg whites (66 grams) contain:
- sodium: 110 mg
- potassium: 108 mg
- phosphorus: 10 mg
6. Garlic is superfood for people with kidney disease
When your diet is restricted for health reasons, spices are one of your best friends. Garlic is a tasty and nutritious addition to your menu, has anti-inflammatory properties and can lower your cholesterol.
Three cloves (9 grams) of garlic contain:
- sodium: 1.5 mg
- potassium: 36 mg
- phosphorus: 14 mg
7. Fish is superfood for people with kidney disease
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish is an excellent source of protein and can also boost your heart health.
8. Red grapes are superfoods for people with kidney disease
The red pigment in grapes comes from a substance called flavonoids. These flavonoids help reduce the risk of blood clots. Grapes can be frozen and eaten as a thirst quencher for patients on a liquid-restricted diet.
These sweet fruits are kidney-friendly, with a half cup (75 grams) containing:
- sodium: 1.5 mg
- potassium: 144 mg
- phosphorus: 15 mg
9. Olive oil is superfood for people with kidney disease
Naturally rich in oleic acid and polyphenols, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties, extra virgin olive oil has long been considered a health food.
One tablespoon (13.5 grams) of olive oil contains:
- sodium: 0.3 mg
- potassium: 0.1 mg
- phosphorus: 0 mg
10. Strawberry is good for people with kidney disease
Low in potassium and high in vitamin C, manganese and fiber, strawberries don't just taste good, they're really good. When your diet is restricted for health reasons, this natural "candy" feels like a treat.
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