The foods we eat play a big role in keeping our kidneys working well. In the early stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD), before dialysis is needed, your physician may recommend that you limit your potassium, phosphorus, and sodium intake. Limiting these nutrients can make the kidneys work easier, which can help to maintain their function. Click here to watch a helpful webinar that discusses the best foods for each stage of CKD. But first, keep reading to learn about 7 superfoods that are low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium, and good for your overall health.
White rice
Rice contains good fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while providing energy to keep your body moving. Brown rice contains more potassium and phosphorus than white rice, making white rice a good choice for those with CKD. Quick cooking rice typically contains more sodium, so try to use standard white rice whenever possible.
Cauliflower
An excellent source of fiber that is also high in Vitamin C and K, is cauliflower. It is also a fat-free and cholesterol-free food. Cauliflower is also highly versatile, from cauliflower rice, to cauliflower pizza crust, or hidden in a casserole for extra nutrients, cauliflower can be easily incorporated into a variety of dishes.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and some B vitamins. They are also a good source of fiber and water to help hydrate. Not only do cucumbers make a delicious snack, they can be sliced and added to water to help add a crisp, refreshing flavor.
Blueberries
These super sweet berries can cure a sweet tooth while providing a powerful punch of vitamins and minerals. High in vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese and virtually no fat, they make a great choice for any meal or snack throughout the day.
Apples
These flavorful fruits are high in antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber, and B vitamins. Whether craving a sweet treat or needing an energizing snack to get you through the day, apples make a healthy food choice. Click here to learn more about why apples are such a great choice!
Egg whites
In addition to being high in protein, which some people with CKD may need to limit, egg whites are a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. Egg whites are high in B vitamins, while low in cholesterol, fat, and calories. They can be an excellent way to start the day, especially when paired with a super fruit like apples or blueberries to get an extra kick of antioxidants and fiber.
Rice milk
Dairy products, including milk, are high in potassium and phosphorus. Choosing a milk alternative such as rice milk, allows you to enjoy milk without the extra work on the kidneys. Rice milk is commonly fortified to be good sources of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, making it a delicious and nutritious milk alternative.
The foods we eat play a big role in our kidney function, so choosing foods that keep our kidneys healthy is important. When buying fruits and vegetables be sure to include a variety in your diet, since some are rich in one nutrient while others are rich in another. Making a meal plan for the week is a great way to ensure that we are eating healthy while taking the stress away from making daily food choices. For more information how you can utilize meal planning to help keep you on track with your health goals, click here.