Kidney disease often necessitates a specialized diet, particularly one low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium. Although such dietary changes may not cure kidney issues, they can significantly slow the progression to end-stage renal disease.
Additionally, conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, insulin resistance, and elevated uric acid levels are common risk factors for kidney disease. Therefore, reducing the risks of such diseases through dietary adjustment is vital for kidney health.
When kidneys malfunction, waste products, which stem partly from consumed food, accumulate in the blood. People with kidney disease benefit from a specific diet known as a renal diet. The dietary restrictions vary based on the extent of kidney damage, with different requirements for early and later stages of the disease. The primary goal is to enhance kidney function while mitigating further damage. To achieve this, individuals with kidney disease often need to limit certain nutrients, as the kidneys struggle to process or remove them, potentially causing harm.
Sodium, the main component in salt, should be limited to under 2,000 milligrams per day. Potassium restrictions vary based on the stage of kidney disease, while phosphorus intake is recommended at 600–800 milligrams per day. Protein restrictions also depend on the stage of the disease. Given the close association between kidney and heart diseases, it’s advisable to incorporate heart-healthy choices, focusing on fresh, plant-based foods and minimizing saturated fats.
As experiences with kidney disease can differ, consulting a doctor regarding individual dietary needs is crucial. Here, we highlight 15 beneficial foods for individuals with kidney disease.
- Blueberries
- Sea bass
- Cauliflower
- Egg whites
- Red grapes
- Olive oil
- Buckwheat
- Bell peppers
- Bulgur
- Skinless chicken
- Cabbage
- Onions
- Macadamia nuts
- Arugula
- Radish
Blueberries
Blueberries boast a wealth of nutrients and antioxidants called anthocyanins, potentially shielding against heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases. As these ailments may further complicate chronic kidney diseases, food that prevents them should be first on your plate.
Moreover, they are low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium. According to USDA, A single cup of fresh blueberries (100 grams) contains minimal sodium (1 mg), 77 mg of potassium, 12 mg of phosphorus, and 0.74 grams of protein. [1]
