Kidneys play an immensely important role in our bodies. They’re small bean-shaped organs but they’re in charge of removing waste and filtering everything in the body. And when you have kidney disease, there are some dietary restrictions you’ll have to face, just so it’s easier for your kidneys to function. A kidney friendly diet involves limiting sodium, potassium and phosphorus.
Dark-colored soda
We already know that soda is bad for you, especially dark colored ones are especially bad for those with renal disease. These contain additivities made of phosphorus to enhance the flavor, prolong shelf life and prevent discoloration. Unfortunately, our bodies absorb this phosphorus much faster than any natural or plant-based phosphorus
Canned foods
Canned foods are usually cheap and convenient but they have a lot of sodium since they contain a lot of salt to increase their shelf life. You can instead opt for lower sodium alternatives that have the label, “no salt added”
Whole wheat bread
Bread is a staple in many people’s diet and when you have kidney disease, choosing the one appropriate for you can be difficult. You might prefer whole wheat bread over refined white flour bread, but that might not be as beneficial as you think. Whole wheat bread has more phosphorus and potassium content because of how much bran and whole grains it has. Moreover, most of them have a considerable sodium content too. So it’s best to compare nutrition labels according to your needs and then chop the one you’d prefer.
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Bananas
For regular people, bananas are extremity nautilus, but not for people with renal disease. Bananas have an amazingly high potassium content. And while they’re low in sodium, just one medium banana has 422 mg of potassium. So keeping our daily potassium take to 2000 mg becomes difficult when you add some bananas to your diet. However, pineapples are less in potassium and are a tasty alternative too!
Processed meats
Processed meats have been long associated with chronic diseases and they’re usually considered unhealthy due to their preservative contents. Any meats that have been dried, cured or canned are not good for anyone. Unfortunately, this consists of hot dogs, bacon, pepperoni, jerky and sausages. So all the good stuff that a lot of people like. Therefore, it’s better to monitor your protein intake, so it doesn’t go over the limit.
Potatoes and sweet potatoes
These potassium-rich vegetables contain about 500 to 600 mgs of potassium. Luckily, these potatoes can be soaked or leached to reduce their potassium contents. Cut them into small thin pieces and boil for about 10 minutes. This way the potassium content reduces by about 50%! This method is known as potassium leaching or the double cook method. The potassium content is reduced, but not eliminated. It’s best to control your portion so you don’t have to deal with the harmful consequences later on.
In short, all you need to do is to be mindful of your potassium, phosphorus, and sodium. Overall, just steer clear of all processed snacks and meats. Consult a dietitian and your healthcare provider so you can make yourself a diet plan that works for you!
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!