If you have kidney disease, you may find the renal diet at odds with your vegetarianism. A renal diet favors white bread over wheat; requires protein at every meal; limits dairy foods; and calls for monitoring of the intake of raw fruits and vegetables. Diet plans for kidney patients, including vegetarians, pay particular attention to the nutrients protein, sodium, phosphorus and potassium.
Benefits of Protein
Protein decreases inflammation and builds up strength in body. Protein needs vary depending on kidney function. Ask your physician for your kidney function level. The lower your kidney function the more protein you need since dialysis removes protein from your bloodstream. American Kidney Foundation cites study findings that show plant proteins slow the decline of kidney function, therefore stabilizing how well the kidneys filter blood.
Minerals to Monitor
Your doctor will want to monitor your potassium, phosphorus and sodium blood levels to ensure the safety of your kidneys and decrease the amount of toxic wastes produced by your body. Depending on your level of kidney function, you may not need to restrict potassium and phosphorus intake as long as you monitor your blood levels to ensure they stay within recommended ranges. Because fruits and vegetables contain potassium, some renal diets provide for a serving size of 1/2 cup. To limit sodium to 1,500 mg per day, a kidney patient can avoid canned vegetables and soups and added salt. Eating foods that contain 300 mg or less of sodium per serving helps regulate sodium levels. Dairy products contain phosphorus; daily limits include a cup of milk or two ounces of cheeses.
Food Choices
The high fiber of a typical vegetarian diet fills your stomach and slows the digestion of food, allowing you to eat less and still be satisfied. Protein comes from a combination of sources, such as plant proteins, soy, eggs and fish. Add fats to your meals to fill up. Boil vegetables and beans to remove phosphorus. Drink water for a low-potassium beverage. Eat small meals throughout the day to keep your metabolism moving.
Benefit of Vegetarian Diet
"Research shows eating vegetarian proteins can actually slow down the progression of kidney disease and other complications associated with this disease," according to board certified registered dietitian Joan Brookshyer, making it helpful in managing chronic kidney disease.
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