Renal Diet

Chronic kidney disease or chronic kidney failure occurs when the kidneys are damaged and unable to filter blood properly.  This can lead to a build-up of waste in the blood and other health problems such as anemia, hypertension, and nerve damage.

Due to the risk of such complications, It is important for those diagnosed with chronic kidney failure to adhere to treatment recommended by their physicians.  Treatment plans may include making lifestyle changes such as following a kidney (renal) diet.

A kidney diet can help in cutting down the amount of waste in the blood and promoting kidney function.  Renal diets are low in sodium, potassium, protein, phosphorus, calcium, and in some instances fluids.  Here is a list of foods containing these ingredients people with kidney disease may want to limit or avoid:

  • Avocados
  • Canned foods
  • Dark-colored sodas
  • Bananas
  • Whole wheat bread
  • Brown rice
  • Orange juice
  • Dairy
  • Potatoes
  • Dates, raisins or prunes

Everyone’s case is different so there may be variations in a diet suggested by a dietitian or doctor.

A kidney-friendly eating plan is one of the ways to protect your kidneys from further damage. To learn more about maintaining your kidney health or to schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.