For people with kidney disease, following a strict diet is crucial to their health and well-being. Most renal diets are low in sodium, potassium, phosphorus and fluids. The severity of your renal disease and whether or not you are on dialysis determine whether a high- or low-protein diet is recommended. Diet requirements vary from person to person depending on age, gender, height, weight, stage of disease and other comorbidities. Consulting with a registered dietitian can help you determine your specific nutrition needs and develop a customized meal plan.
Breakfast
For those with increased protein needs, starting breakfast with an omelet made with 2 eggs, 1 tbsp. of shredded cheese and sautéed mushrooms and onions can help start your day off on the right foot. Add a piece or two of white toast with margarine and jelly and ½ cup of apple juice. Another breakfast option is two pancakes with maple syrup, two low-sodium turkey sausage links and 17 small grapes. For those restricting their protein, decrease this to only one sausage link or eliminate it altogether.
Lunch
For lunch, try a salad made with lettuce, cucumbers, onions and shredded carrots and top it with a piece of grilled chicken and 2 tbsp. of Italian dressing. Add a dinner roll and ½ cup of fruit cocktail on the side. Another lunch option is a low-sodium turkey and cheese sandwich on white bread with lettuce and mustard or mayonnaise. Add ½ cup of pasta salad on the side and a sugar cookie for a meal that is easy to pack, especially if you need to eat away from home on dialysis.
Dinner
At dinner, be sure that protein is the center of attention at the meal if you have increased protein needs. Choose 4 oz. of a low-sodium protein such as fish, chicken, turkey, beef or pork. Pair it with a low-phosphorus starch such as white rice or buttered noodles. Last, choose low-potassium vegetables to accompany the meal such as green beans, carrots, summer squash and peppers. A sample dinner may include 4 oz. of broiled salmon with orzo pasta, steamed zucchini and a dinner roll. Or try a baked, breaded pork chop with rice and gravy, green beans and vanilla pudding for dessert.
Beverages and Seasonings
Fluids may be restricted while on a renal diet. Consult with a physician to determine how many ounces of fluids you should drink each day. Choose beverages that are low in potassium and phosphorus such as water, apple and grape juices, clear sodas, coffee and tea. Limit dairy products, colas and orange and tomato juices. When seasoning your foods, fresh herbs and spices are generally the safest options. Salt and seasonings made with salt can increase your daily sodium intake, which may be detrimental to your health and therefore should be avoided.
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