Heart Healthy Food Choices for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Patients

When the kidneys are functioning normally, they remove excess fluid and waste products from the blood. When kidney function declines, it becomes more difficult for these waste products to be eliminated from the body. Changes to your diet may be necessary to reduce the workload of the kidneys and slow the progression of kidney disease. Learning to make heart-healthy choices can help prevent additional health problems as you manage kidney failure.

Protein

When protein is broken down during digestion, a waste product called urea is created. Kidney disease makes it difficult for the kidneys to efficiently eliminate urea. Reduce your protein intake to alleviate some of the workload on your kidneys. Large amounts of protein are found in animal products, including chicken, turkey, fish, beef, pork and dairy products. Eliminate these foods from your diet, or reduce them significantly.

Sodium

Sodium is necessary for proper body function, but too much sodium can increase the kidneys' workload and lead to high blood pressure. Sodium is often found in processed foods, breads, soft drinks, canned vegetables and soups, and snack foods like chips and pretzels. Eliminate these foods from your diet to prevent the progression of kidney disease, and reduce the chances of developing hypertension. Reducing your sodium intake helps manage both your kidney disease and heart health.

Phosphorus

People with kidney disease may have difficulty controlling phosphorus levels. When too much phosphorus builds up in the blood, it can result in the loss of calcium from your bones. This can lead to broken bones and osteoporosis. Limit your phosphorus intake by avoiding dairy products, nuts, beer, soft drinks and dried beans. Replace dairy products with non-dairy creamers and milk substitutes.

Potassium

Potassium is very important for kidney function and the overall function of the body. However, too much potassium can put a strain on your kidneys and make it difficult for waste products to be removed from the blood in an efficient manner. To reduce your potassium intake, avoid foods like sweet potatoes, apples, fish and peas. Some potassium can be removed from your diet by removing the skin from potatoes and yams, where most of the potassium is concentrated. Potassium plays a major role in the cardiovascular system; getting the appropriate amount can help improve your heart health while you manage your kidney disease.

Balanced Diet

Eliminating a number of foods from your diet makes it difficult to get the appropriate amount of calories and balance of nutrients. A dietitian or nutritionist who specializes in working with kidney disease patients can help you design a diet plan that will ensure adequate caloric and nutrient intake, while eliminating foods and beverages that can contribute to the progression of kidney disease. Making good choices to manage your kidney disease can also improve your heart health over time.