Renal Diet Food List
Kidney disease is a common issue touching about 10% of the global population. Kidneys are bean-shaped small organs that perform various crucial and powerful functions in the body.
Kidneys are responsible for balancing fluids in the body, filtering waste products, producing urine, releasing hormones that regulate blood pressure, among other crucial functions.
There are a couple of ways in which these crucial organs can be damaged. BP (blood pressure) and diabetes are the most common risks that bring about kidney disease.
In addition, age, gender, genetics, and smoking can also increase this risk.
High blood pressure and unregulated blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the kidneys reducing their capability to work optimally.
In addition, when the kidneys aren’t functioning well, waste products accumulate in the blood, including waste from food.
As a result, it’s crucial for individuals suffering from kidney disease to stick to a special diet.
Kidney Disease and Diet
For persons with advanced kidney disease, it’s vital to stick to a kidney-friendly diet that helps decrease the amount of waste in the bloodstream.
This diet is known as the renal diet, and it helps enhance kidney function while preventing further harm.
It’s widely suggested that all persons with kidney disease limit the following nutrients:
Phosphorus: Damaged kidneys can’t expel excess phosphorus, a mineral present in many foods.
High phosphorus levels can cause harm to bodies; therefore, phosphorus is limited to less than 800-1000 milligrams (mg) per day.
Potassium: Potassium plays several significant roles in the body, but those with kidney disease need to restrict potassium to avoid severely high blood levels.
It’s usually suggested to limit potassium to less than 2,000 milligrams (mg) per day.
Sodium: Sodium is found in a couple of foods, and it’s a major constituent of table salt.
Damaged kidneys can’t remove excess sodium, causing their blood levels to climb. So it’s often recommended to restrict sodium to less than 2,000 milligrams (mg) per day.
Foods to Eat on the Renal Diet
Blueberries
Renal Diet Food List – Blueberries
Blueberries are filled with nutrients and are one of the top sources of antioxidants you can take.
Particularly these sweet berries have antioxidants known as anthocyanins which can shield against certain cancers, cognitive decline, diabetes, and heart disease.
They are also an incredible addition to a kidney-friendly diet because they are low in phosphorus, potassium, and sodium. One serving (142 grams) of fresh blueberries contains
- Phosphorus: 18 mg
- Potassium: 114 mg
- Sodium: 1.5 mg
Buckwheat
Renal Diet Food List – Buckwheat
Most whole grains have high phosphorus levels, but buckwheat is a healthy alternative.
Buckwheats are highly wholesome, providing a good amount of iron, fiber, magnesium, and vitamin C. A half-cup (84 grams) of prepared buckwheat has
- Phosphorus: 59 mg
- Potassium: 74 mg
- Sodium: 3.5 mg
Cauliflower
Cauliflower
This is a nutritious vegetable that’s an ideal source of many nutrients, including vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin K.
It’s also filled with anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles which is an excellent source of fiber.
In addition, mashed cauliflower can be used in place of a low potassium side dish. One serving (124 grams) of cooked cauliflower comprises
- Phosphorus: 40 mg
- Potassium: 176 mg
- Sodium: 19 mg
Egg Whites
Egg Whites
Although egg yolks are wholesome, they have high levels of phosphorus making egg whites the perfect option for people sticking to a renal diet.
Egg whites are a kidney-friendly source of protein. They’re an impressive choice for people undergoing dialysis treatment.
Two large egg whites contain
- Phosphorus: 10 mg
- Potassium: 108 mg
- Sodium: 110 mg
Garlic
Garlic
People who have kidney problems are recommended to reduce the amount of sodium they take. Garlic is a sumptuous alternative to salt, adding flavor to dishes and nutritional benefits.
It’s an impressive source of manganese, vitamin B6, and vitamin C and has sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. Three cloves of garlic have
- Phosphorus: 14 mg
- Potassium: 36 mg
- Sodium: 1.5 mg
Olive Oil
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a vital source of fat and it’s phosphorus-free, making it a great option for persons with kidney disease.
Often persons with advanced kidney disease have trouble maintaining weight, making healthy, high-calorie foods like olive oil vital.
One spoon (13.0 grams) of olive oil has
- Phosphorus: 0 mg
- Potassium: 0.1 mg
- Sodium: 0.3 mg
Red Grapes
Renal Diet Food List – Red Grapes
Red grapes are not only sumptuous, but they also deliver a load of nutrition in a small package.
They’re high in vitamin C, and they have antioxidants known as flavonoids which have been proven to reduce inflammation.
These delicious fruits are kidney-friendly, containing half a serving (75 grams).
- Phosphorus: 15 mg
- Potassium: 114 mg
- Sodium: 1.5 mg
Sea Bass
Renal Diet Food List – Sea Bass
Sea bass is a top-notch protein with incredibly healthy fats known as omega-3. Omegas 3s help lessens inflammation and can help reduce the risk of anxiety, cognitive decline, and depression.
85 grams (three ounces) of cooked sea bass have
- Phosphorus: 211 mg
- Potassium: 279 mg
- Sodium: 74 mg
What not to take on a Renal Diet
Limit Calcium and Phosphorus
You need these minerals to maintain your bones healthy and strong. When your kidneys are okay, they eradicate the phosphorous you don’t need.
However, if you have CKD, your phosphorus levels can be a bit too high.
This puts you at increased risk of contracting heart disease. In addition, your calcium amounts start to decrease. To make up for it, your body gets it from your bones.
This can make them feeble and easier to break.
What about Fluids?
If you have early-stage CKD, you don’t need to reduce fluids. However, if your condition becomes worse, your physician will inform you if you need to cut those too.
To reduce fluids, you can:
- Manage your thirst with ice chips, frozen grapes, or sugar-free hard candies.
- Stay away from salty foods.
- Track your fluid intake in a journal.
Final Thought
All in all, the kidney-friendly foods illustrated above are top options for people sticking to the renal diet.
First, however, you need to discuss your food choices with a physician to make sure that you are following the best diet for your personal needs.
Printable Renal Diet Food List in PDF
| Foods to Eat On The Renal Diet | Foods to limit on the Renal Diet |
|---|---|
| Blueberries | Limit Calcium and Phosphorus |
| Buckwheat | To reduce fluids, you can: |
| Cauliflower | Manage your thirst with ice chips, frozen grapes, or sugar-free hard candies. |
| Egg Whites | Stay away from salty foods. |
| Garlic | Track your fluid intake in a journal. |
| Olive Oil | |
| Red Grapes | |
| Sea Bass |
See Also
Keto Diet and Stage 3 Kidney Disease
Intermittent Fasting Food List
Damla Sengul, a seasoned Food Editor at Dietsmealplan.com, boasts a 5-year worth of expertise as a digital editor, with a specific focus on authentic recipe content. Her expertise extends to various crucial aspects of the cookery world, including in-depth research on renowned chefs worldwide and innovative recipe development. Additionally, Damla is an enthusiastic baker who dedicates part of her time crafting delightful celebration cakes for her friends.