The renal diet can be one of the most difficult diets to follow. It may seem like a challenge to plan a Thanksgiving menu around a renal diet but with a little creativity the menu options are endless. A standard renal diet is low in potassium and phosphorus, and depending on whether or not an individual is receiving dialysis treatments, protein is either restricted or increased. A medical doctor or registered dietitian should be consulted before deciding how much protein should be included in a renal diet.
Appetizers
Start Thanksgiving out right with an appetizer. Artichoke hearts are low in potassium and phosphorus. For an easy artichoke dip, combine 1 cup cooked, chopped artichoke hearts, ¼ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, 2 tbsp cream cheese, 1 finely chopped clove of garlic, and 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese. Bake at 375 F until bubbly and serve with pita bread. Fresh carrots, cucumbers and sweet peppers could also be a low fat and low potassium appetizer
Main Dish
Turkey, the main dish most frequently associated with Thanksgiving dinner, is not as high in phosphorus as some meats but is not a low phosphorus choice. Dark turkey meat is lower in phosphorus than white meat. Paying close attention to portion size is the best way to control protein and phosphorus intake. Don't forget that gravy made from turkey is another source of phosphorus.
Vegetables and Sides
Most people would agree that traditional Thanksgiving side dishes are what make the meal. It's not Thanksgiving dinner without mashed potatoes and stuffing. The good news is that traditional dishes such as stuffing, green beans and carrots are compatible with a renal diet. Potatoes are high in potassium and are usually excluded from a renal diet. This Thanksgiving give "nearly mashed potatoes" a try. Cook cauliflower and mash it with cream cheese, garlic and black pepper.
Desserts
Many desserts are compatible with a renal diet. Traditional favorites such as pumpkin pie can be enjoyed in moderation as pumpkin is high in potassium. Nuts, such as pecans and walnuts, are also high in phosphorus and also should be eaten in moderation. Apples and cranberries are low in potassium and could be used in pies or gelatin. Whipped topping can be a low phosphorus addition to any dessert.
References
- Davita: Diet and Nutrition
- "Food Values of Portions Commonly Used"; Jean A.T. Pennington and Judith S. Douglass: 2005
- National Kidney Foundation: Nutrition, Diet
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