Nutrition in Kidney Failure

Hello, this week I would like to briefly talk about “how to eat in kidney failure.” You may have acquaintances in your family, workplace, or social circle who are living with kidney failure or undergoing dialysis — or you may be experiencing kidney failure yourself. As with many diseases, nutrition plays a crucial role in slowing the progression of kidney failure and improving quality of life.

In kidney failure, blood levels of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus are very important. Therefore, foods rich in phosphorus and potassium are limited. Let’s take a look at which foods from the four main food groups can be consumed and which ones should be avoided in cases of kidney failure.

Meat Group

Foods in the meat group meet our daily protein requirements. After proteins are used by the body, certain waste products are formed. These substances are harmful and, in healthy individuals, are excreted by the kidneys through urine. If there is kidney failure, these substances cannot be adequately eliminated and begin to accumulate in the blood.

Additionally, since meat group foods are high in phosphorus, they must be consumed carefully. For this reason, when consuming protein sources, you should not exceed the portion sizes recommended by your dietitian.

Preferred meat group foods:Beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, soybeans

Foods to avoid:Sucuk (Turkish sausage), salami, sausage, pastrami, ham, brain, kidney, spleen, liver, tripe, and dried legumes

Dairy Group

Dairy products meet our protein and calcium needs. In cases of kidney failure, excessive consumption of dairy products is also not recommended. Like meat products, they are sources of phosphorus and protein, so portion control is essential.

Preferred dairy products:Yogurt, low-salt cheese, curd cheese, ricotta (lor cheese), milk

Foods to avoid:Milk powder, kashar cheese, and herbed cheese

Bread and Grains Group

Foods in this group meet daily energy needs. Although they are primarily carbohydrate (sugar) sources, they also contain small amounts of protein. Since whole grains are high in potassium, patients with kidney failure are generally advised to consume refined grains instead.

Preferred grain products:Rice, pasta, white bread (unsalted), pastries made from white flour

Foods to avoid:Bulgur, corn, cornmeal, tarhana, potatoes, whole grains

Vegetable and Fruit Group

Although vegetables and fruits are sources of vitamins and minerals, they contain high amounts of potassium. Therefore, in patients with kidney failure, their portions must be significantly restricted. Excessive consumption may increase blood potassium levels and cause complications.

Vegetables should be boiled and drained before cooking. When consuming foods from this group, you should consult your dietitian.

Foods to avoid:Artichoke, beetroot, mushroom, celery, tomato, cucumber, spinach, chard, grape leaves, purslane, kale, broad beans, pumpkin, parsley, garlic, black-eyed peas, asparagus, dates, banana, melon, avocado, pomegranate, kiwi, loquat, and dried fruits

In addition, it is important to consume meals without salt. Since kidney function is impaired, fluid restriction may also be necessary. This varies from person to person.

Stay healthy. 🌿