Restricted Foods On A Renal Diet

Individuals with kidney disease often face challenges in dietary planning due to multiple restrictions. A variety of nutrients, particularly minerals, are limited in the diet due to the kidneys' inability to process these nutrients. In patients not receiving dialysis, monitoring intake of these nutrients is especially important. Intake of foods containing high amounts of sodium, potassium and phosphorus must be limited.

High-Sodium Foods

Limitation of sodium, or salt, intake on a renal diet is necessary in order to maintain proper fluid balance. Excessive sodium intake in renal patients can cause excessive fluid retention and raise blood pressure. The American Dietetic Association (ADA) recommends no more than 3,000 mg of sodium per day for renal patients, and foods consumed must contain less than 300 mg sodium per serving.

High-sodium foods that you must limit include processed meats such as bacon and sausage, canned soups and vegetables, salted snack foods such as pretzels, frozen meals and pre-packaged convenience foods. Table salt, soy sauce and other salt-containing condiments are also restricted.

High-Potassium Foods

Potassium, another nutrient normally processed by the kidneys, requires restriction as high levels can cause heart failure. Patients receiving frequent dialysis can generally afford to eat more potassium, but the ADA recommends a maximum of 3,000 mg per day for non-dialysis patients.

High-potassium foods include bananas, oranges, honeydew melon, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, spinach, avocados, mangoes, milk, yogurt and beans. Limit servings of these foods to three per week if your potassium level is high. Avoid salt substitutes containing potassium.

High-Phosphorus Foods

Limit intake of phosphorus, a nutrient responsible for bone formation and pH regulation, due to its tendency to be retained in the body and cause bone degeneration. According to the ADA, less than 1200 mg per day is recommended, or about 17 mg per kg of body weight.

High-phosphorus foods include baking mixes, dairy products, peanut butter, nuts, soy milk, beans, pancakes and dry cereal.

Kidney Disease and Protein

Protein needs in kidney disease vary based on body weight and whether or not you are receiving dialysis. Dialysis patients needs extra protein, as protein is lost in the dialysate fluid. The ADA currently recommends .8-1 g protein per kg of body weight for non-dialysis patients, and 1.2-1.5 g protein per kg of body weight for those on dialysis.

High-protein foods include meats, seafood, cheese, meat substitutes such as soy burgers, and eggs. A serving, or one ounce, of these foods contains 7 g of protein (see Reference 2).

Additional Considerations and Tips

You must also monitor your fluid intake. Depending on other medical conditions and presence of dialysis, fluid needs vary from person to person. Your physician can help you understand what your fluid needs are and how to know if you are getting too much or too little fluid.

Tips:
Read nutrition labels to find sodium content.
Plan menus in advance for easier meal preparation.
Measure fluids to avoid getting too much or too little.
Work with a dietitian, who can help you individualize your meal plan based on your needs.