People who are in kidney failure have to make alterations in their diets to prevent health problems. Foods that supply high levels of certain nutrients like protein, phosphorus and potassium should be limited or eliminated from the diet. A dietitian can help these patients determine what foods are best to eat. The best foods typically have lower levels of those nutrients in order to protect the kidneys.
Lower Protein Foods
The kidney clears the waste products from protein out of the body. Foods that contain high levels of protein can create more waste than the kidney can clear safely and can lead to faster kidney deterioration, according to The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Since protein is necessary for muscle, blood and bone health, these patients should eat less protein than before their kidney problems--while continuing to consume sufficient amounts of essential amino acids. Good lower protein sources include egg substitutes, shrimp tofu and imitation crab meat. According to the DaVita website, fatty fish like salmon, halibut and rainbow trout also provide quality protein as well as healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Low Phosphorus Foods
High phosphorus levels in the blood lower the amount of calcium in the person's bones, according to The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Since the kidney manages the levels of phosphorus in the blood, patients in kidney failure often have high levels of the mineral. Foods with higher phosphorus contents should be avoided by these patients. Better food choices for patients with kidney failure include sherbet, rice and corn cereals, popcorn, and green beans.
Lower Potassium Foods
High potassium levels in the blood can cause heart and muscle problems; patients with kidney failure have to be mindful of eating large amounts of foods with high potassium levels, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Many foods like oranges and potatoes have high potassium. Lower-potassium options include apples and apple juice, cranberry juice, pineapples, cauliflower and broccoli, according to The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
Low Sodium Foods
Sodium can cause the body to hold on to excess fluid which can lead to high blood pressure and an increased strain on the heart and kidneys, according to Drugs.com. Patients in kidney failure should eat lower sodium foods to avoid these side effects. Unsalted popcorn and pretzels, frozen vegetables and salt-free seasonings are good substitutes for their salty counterparts.
Healthy Fats
Eating fewer saturated and trans fats is important for people in kidney failure to avoid high cholesterol levels. People need fat in the diet because it can be used for energy and to create vital hormones in the body, according to The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Including healthy fats can make sure the patient gets the necessary fats and additional calories needed. Examples of healthy fats include olive oil, corn oil and peanut oil.
