Last week we shared some information on our body’s great filters – the kidneys. To continue this week we will be talking about ways to help seniors follow a renal diets. Renal diets are those low in sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and protein.
Reducing Sodium –
- Never add salt to food and only consume reduced-sodium soups/ broths.
- Avoid frozen meals – these have high sodium contents for preservation.
- Don’t eat foods with 300mg or more of sodium per serving.
- Check labels to be sure no salt is added.
- Don’t buy foods preserved in a “solution”. Normally these are very high in sodium!
Reducing Potassium –
- Avoid melons and bananas which are naturally high in potassium.
- Do not drink orange, prune, or grapefruit juice.
- Limit tomato-based foods like pasta sauce.
- Never eat dried beans.
- Don’t eat cooked greens, spinach, collards, or swiss chard.
- Always wash and peel potatoes.
Reducing phosphorus –
- Reduce dairy intake to 1 cup per day.
- Limit broccoli, mushrooms, and brussel sprouts to 1 cup per week.
- Cereals like bran or oatmeal should be eaten no more than once a week.
- Do not drink soft drinks of beer.
- Choose white bread over whole grains.
Reducing protein –
- Reduce meat and nut consumption.
- Eat easier-to-digest proteins like egg whites or skinless chicken.
Kidney-Friendly Foods –
- Veggies like bell peppers, cauliflower, cabbage, radishes, and turnips.
- Seafood rich in Omega 3 fatty acides.
- Low-potassium fruits like blueberries, red grapes, cranberries and pineapples.
- Unsalted seasonings including garlic and onion.
- Light grains like bulger and buckwheat.
Seniors can often grow discouraged by restrictive diets such as renal diets. Encourage them by making their favorite meals or treats and make substitutions using kidney-friendly alternative ingredients.
Always consult your physician as to any diet changes you would like to make.