Health

30 Best Foods for People with Kidney Disease

March 08, 2022

Overview

Kidney disease is a common problem that affects about 10% of the world's population. Kidneys are bean-shaped vital organs that perform several functions, including:

Filtration of waste products.
Releasing hormones that regulate blood pressure.
Balancing fluids in the body.
Producing urine.

Several risk factors can damage kidneys and affect their function, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Moreover, obesity, smoking, genetics, gender, and age are other risk factors.

When the kidneys are not working correctly, waste builds up in the blood, including waste products from food. Therefore, it is curial for people with kidney disease to follow a special diet.

Diet and Kidney Disease

People with kidney disease have dietary restrictions depending on their conditions. For example, people in the early stages of kidney disease have different rules than those with kidney failure, also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

Most people with advanced kidney disease follow a kidney-friendly diet that helps decrease the amount of waste in the blood. Diet is also known as a renal diet, which helps boost kidney function and prevent further damage. The recommended common dietary restrictions for all people with kidney disease are restricting the following nutrients.

Sodium

Sodium, a core component of table salt, is found in many foods. Damaged kidneys cannot remove excess Sodium causing high blood salt levels. It is advisable to restrict the Sodium to less than 2,000 mg daily.

Potassium

Potassium is an essential mineral that plays many curial roles in the body. But, people with kidney disease need to limit their Potassium intake. The recommended value of Potassium for patients is less than 2,000 mg per day.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus is another essential mineral found in many foods. Damaged kidneys cannot remove excess Phosphorus, and high levels cause damage to the body. The recommended value of Phosphorus for patients is restricted to less than 800–1,000 mg daily.

Protein

People with kidney disease may need to limit protein intake as damaged kidneys cannot remove waste products from protein metabolism.

Each person with kidney disease is different and has different dietary needs. It is necessary to talk to your healthcare provider about your individual needs. Here are 30 of the best foods for people with kidney disease.

1- Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable with many essential nutrients, fibers, and vitamins. It is a good vitamin C, K, and B folate source. Cauliflower is the best food for people with kidney disease. One cup (124 grams) of cooked cauliflower contains:

Sodium 19 mg
Potassium 176 mg
Phosphorus 40 mg

2- Blueberries

Blueberries are packed with nutrients and are excellent sources of antioxidants. They are rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins, which may help protect against heart disease, certain cancers, cognitive decline, and diabetes. Blueberries are a fantastic addition to a kidney-friendly diet, as they are low in Sodium, Phosphorus, and Potassium. One cup (148 grams) of fresh blueberries contains:

Sodium 5 mg
Potassium 114 mg
Phosphorus 18 mg

3- Sea Bass

While all fish are high in Phosphorus, sea bass contains lower amounts than other seafood. Also, sea bass is a rich source of omega-3s fatty acids. Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and may help decrease the risk of cognitive decline, depression, and anxiety. However, consuming small portions of sea bass is crucial to keeping your Phosphorus levels in check. Three ounces (85 grams) of cooked sea bass contains:

Sodium 74 mg
Potassium 279 mg
Phosphorus 211 mg

4- Red Grapes

Red grapes are not only delicious but also packed with healthy nutrients. They are high in vitamin C and antioxidants called flavonoids. Flavonoids help reduce inflammation, improve heart health and protect against diabetes and cognitive decline. These sweet fruits are kidney-friendly, with a half-cup (75 grams) containing:

Sodium 5 mg
Potassium 144 mg
Phosphorus 15 mg

5- Egg Whites

Although egg yolks are very nutritious, they are high in Phosphorus. So making egg whites a better choice for people following a renal diet. Egg white provides a high-quality, kidney-friendly protein source. They are an excellent choice for people undergoing dialysis treatment. Particularly for those who require high protein intake but need to limit Phosphorus. Two large egg whites (66 grams) contain the following:

Sodium 110 mg
Potassium 108 mg
Phosphorus 10 mg

6- Garlic

People with kidney disease need to limit their Sodium intake. Garlic is a delicious and nutritious alternative to salt, adding flavor to dishes. It is a good source of manganese, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Also, contain sulfur compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties. Three cloves (9 grams) of garlic contain:

Sodium 5 mg
Potassium 36 mg
Phosphorus 14 mg

7- Buckwheat

Buckwheat is a highly nutritious and kidney-friendly whole grain. It is an excellent source of B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and fiber. Plus, it is a gluten-free grain, making buckwheat a good choice for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. A half-cup (84 grams) of cooked buckwheat contains:

Sodium 5 mg
Potassium 74 mg
Phosphorus 59 mg

8- Olive Oil

Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fat. Plus, it is Phosphorus-free, which makes it an excellent choice for people with kidney disease. Many people with advanced kidney disease have trouble keeping weight. Olive oil helps them to maintain a healthy weight. One tablespoon (13.5 grams) of olive oil contains:

Sodium 3 mg
Potassium 1 mg
Phosphorus 0 mg

9- Bulgur

Bulgur is a kidney-friendly whole-grain wheat product. It is low in Phosphorus and Potassium. It is a good source of B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and manganese. It is also an excellent source of plant-based protein. It is full of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health. A half-cup (91-gram) serving of bulgur contains:

Sodium 5 mg
Potassium 62 mg
Phosphorus 36 mg

10- Cabbage

Cabbage belongs to the most nutritious cruciferous vegetable family. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and other potent plant compounds. Also a good source of B vitamins, vitamin K, vitamin C, and insoluble fiber. Plus, it is low in Potassium, Phosphorus, and Sodium, with one cup (70 grams) of shredded cabbage containing:

Sodium 13 mg
Potassium 119 mg
Phosphorus 18 mg

11- Skinless Chicken

It is necessary to limit protein intake for those people with kidney disease. But an adequate amount of high-quality protein is vital for health. Skinless chicken breast contains less Phosphorus, Potassium, and Sodium, making it a kidney-friendly, high-quality protein. Choose fresh chicken and avoid pre-made roasted chicken as it contains large amounts of Sodium and Phosphorus. Three ounces (84 grams) of skinless chicken breast contains:

Sodium 63 mg
Potassium 216 mg
Phosphorus 192 mg

12- Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are so nutritious and low in Potassium. These brightly colored peppers are rich sources of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. One small red bell pepper (74 grams) contains 105% of vitamin C. Plus, they are high in vitamin A, a vital nutrient for the immune system. And people with kidney disease often have compromised immune function. One small red pepper (74 grams) contains the following:

Sodium 3 mg
Potassium 156 mg
Phosphorus 19 mg

13- Onions

Onions are an excellent option for providing Sodium-free flavor to renal-diet dishes. The delicious sauteing of onions with garlic and olive oil adds flavor to dishes. Onions are high in vitamin C, manganese, and B vitamins. Plus contain prebiotic fibers that help keep your digestive system healthy by feeding beneficial gut bacteria. One small onion (70 grams) includes the following:

Sodium 3 mg
Potassium 102 mg
Phosphorus 20 mg

14- Arugula

Arugula is a nutrient-dense green and low in Potassium, a good choice for kidney-friendly salads and side dishes. It is an excellent source of vitamin K, manganese, and calcium, which are vital for bone health. This nutritious green also contains nitrates, which may help lower blood pressure, an essential benefit for those with kidney disease. One cup (20 grams) of raw arugula contains:

Sodium 6 mg
Potassium 74 mg
Phosphorus 10 mg

15- Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are a delicious option for people with kidney problems. They are much lower in Phosphorus than popular nuts like peanuts and almonds. They are high in healthy fats, B vitamins, magnesium, copper, iron, and manganese. One ounce (28 grams) of macadamia nuts contains:

Sodium 4 mg
Potassium 103 mg
Phosphorus 53 mg

16- Radish

Radishes are low Potassium crunchy vegetables that make a healthy addition to a renal diet. Radishes are a great source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps decrease the risk of heart disease and cataracts. Also, their peppery taste makes a flavorful addition to low-Sodium dishes. A half-cup (58 grams) of sliced radishes contains:

Sodium 23 mg
Potassium 135 mg
Phosphorus 12 mg

17- Turnips

Turnips are low in Potassium and make an excellent replacement for high Potassium vegetables like potatoes and winter squash. These root vegetables are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese, and fiber. Turnips eat as roasted or boiled and mashed to make a healthy side dish. A half-cup (78 grams) of cooked turnips contains:

Sodium 5 mg
Potassium 138 mg
Phosphorus 20 mg

18- Pineapple

Pineapple is less Potassium than other tropical fruits like oranges, bananas, and kiwis. That makes it a deliciously sweet, low Potassium alternative for those with kidney problems. Also, pineapple is rich in fiber, manganese, vitamin C, and bromelain, an enzyme that helps reduce inflammation. One cup (165 grams) of pineapple chunks contains:

Sodium 2 mg
Potassium 180 mg
Phosphorus 13 mg

19- Cranberries

Cranberries are known for their beneficial effect on the urinary tract and kidneys. These tiny tar fruits are high in phytonutrients. Phytonutrients can prevent urinary tract and bladder infections. It is helpful for those with kidney disease, as they have an increased risk of urinary tract infections. Cranberries consume as dried, cooked, fresh, or as juice. One cup (100 grams) of fresh cranberries contains:

Sodium 2 mg
Potassium 80 mg
Phosphorus 11 mg

20- Shiitake Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms are an excellent plant-based meat substitute for those on a renal diet who need to limit protein. These delicious fungi contain B vitamins, copper, manganese, and selenium. In addition, they provide a good amount of plant-based protein and dietary fiber. One cup (145 grams) of cooked shiitake mushroom contains:

Sodium 6 mg
Potassium 170 mg
Phosphorus 42 mg

21- Apples

Apples are low in Potassium, Phosphorus, and Sodium, making them a good choice for a kidney-friendly diet. They are high in fiber, and anti-inflammatory compounds may help reduce cholesterol, prevent constipation, protect against heart disease, and reduce cancer risk. Apples are so versatile. You can eat them raw, bake or cook them, make them into the sauce, or drink them as apple juice or cider. One medium apple with skin contains:

Sodium 0 mg
Potassium 158 mg
Phosphorus 10 mg

22- Raspberries

Raspberries are low in Sodium, Potassium, and Phosphorus but rich in healthy nutrients. It is high in flavonoids called anthocyanins, which give them its red color. They are antioxidants that help remove free radicals and prevent cell damage. Raspberries are an excellent source of manganese, vitamin C, fiber, folate, and B vitamins. Add raspberries to cereal or puree, sweeten them to make a dessert sauce, or add them to vinaigrette dressing. A half-cup serving of raspberries contains:

Sodium 0 mg
Potassium 93 mg
Phosphorus 7 mg

23- Strawberries

Strawberries are an excellent source of antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties and heart protection. They are considered a lower Potassium fruit which makes them kidney-friendly. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, manganese, and fiber. You can eat strawberries with cereal, smoothies, and salad, or slice and serve them fresh or top them with whipped topping. A half-cup serving (5 medium) fresh strawberries contain:

Sodium 1 mg
Potassium 120 mg
Phosphorus 13 mg

24- Cherries

Cherries are low in Sodium and Phosphorus and are a sweet option for people with kidney disease. They are a good source of antioxidants and phytochemicals. Phytochemicals may help reduce inflammation and protect the heart. Eat fresh cherries as a snack, or make a cherry sauce that may serve with lamb or pork. Cherry juice is another way to consume this tasty food. A half-cup serving of fresh sweet cherries contains;

Sodium 0 mg
Potassium 160 mg
Phosphorus 15 mg

25- Kale

Kale is a low-Potassium food and an excellent addition to your kidney-friendly diet. It is also rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and other minerals essential for healthy kidney function. This green nutrient-dense veggie also contains impressive amounts of protein and fiber. A half-cup of cooked or raw kale contains:

Sodium 15 mg
Potassium 150 mg
Phosphorus 18 mg

26- Asparagus

Asparagus is a low-calorie food known for its mild diuretic effect that helps clear toxins and excess fluid out of the kidneys. It can act as soothing to the tubes in the kidneys and is known to prevent stones in the kidney and bladder. It is also an excellent source of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K. 1/2 cup of asparagus contains:

Sodium 6 mg
Potassium 6 mg
Phosphorus 6 mg

27- Eggplant

Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a great vegetable choice for kidney diets because it is low in Potassium, Sodium, and Phosphorus. They are a nutrient-dense food that contains a good amount of vitamins, minerals, and fiber in a few calories. One cup of steamed eggplant contains:

Sodium 2 mg
Potassium 167 mg
Phosphorus 17 mg

28- Plums

Plums are nutritious and kidney-friendly fruit that exhibit many health benefits. They are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. They reduce the risk of diabetes, certain cancers, and high cholesterol. Plus, plums help to maintain a healthy weight. One medium plum contains:

Sodium 0 mg
Potassium 104 mg
Phosphorus 11 mg

29- Green beans

Green beans are naturally low in Sodium and a good choice of vegetables for people with kidney disease. Green beans are high in vitamin K, calcium, and B vitamins. These nutrients are essential for maintaining strong, healthy bones and reducing your risk of fractures. B vitamins are not necessary during pregnancy but also help reduce depression. Half a cup of freshly cooked green beans contains:

Sodium6 mg
Potassium 90 mg
Phosphorus 18 mg

30- Cucumber

Cucumber contains 96% water content and is low in Sodium, making them a kidney-friendly food. It helps lower uric acid levels in your body by helping your kidneys remove out from your blood. Cucumbers can also help dissolve small kidney stones. One cup (142gm) of unpared, raw, chopped cucumber contains: