6 Foods to Protect Your Kidneys

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When you have renal disease, do everything you can to protect the remaining health of your kidneys.

That’s sound advice that typically includes lifestyle changes, medication, and a Renal-Friendly diet that’s low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. And if you’re not used to eating this way, you may be wondering what you should eat.

Here are six Renal-Friendly foods to add to your diet to help protect your kidneys:

Fish

Fish contains healthy protein and high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids that help prevent inflammation linked to kidney disease and other health problems. Fish does contain phosphorus, so it’s important to watch what you eat. Try:

Salmon & Vegetable Linguini

Egg whites

Ever wonder why some people skip the yolk, and just eat egg whites? The yolk is high in calories and fat. More importantly, it’s also high in phosphorus, which you want to avoid on a Renal-Friendly diet. And the good news, egg whites are still a good source of protein. Try:

Breakfast Scramble, Hashbrowns & Asparagus
Fried Egg Patties, Sweet Potatoes & Asparagus

Garlic

Avoid salt/sodium. That might leave a bad taste in your mouth if you enjoyed sprinkling a little salt on your food to bring out the flavors. But it’s advice you should follow when you have Renal disease. Fortunately, there’s more than one good alternative to season your food. Add garlic. It’s a good source of vitamins and nutrients, and helps control inflammation. Try:

Spinach Mushroom Lasagna with Garlic Green Beans

Chicken

Some protein is important when you’re following a Renal-Friendly diet. Skinless chicken is one protein source that pairs well with other foods, because it contains less phosphorus, potassium and sodium than chicken prepared other ways. Try:

Chicken Patty & Penne Pasta Alfredo with Carrots and Butternut Squash
Chicken Paprika with Brown Rice & Green Beans

Bell peppers

Here’s another low-potassium vegetable to add to a Renal-Friendly diet...bell peppers. They’re a rich source of vitamins A and C, and help boost the immune system. Try:

Eggplant Parmigiana and Polenta with Spinach & Roasted Peppers

Mushrooms

Some protein from meat sources is OK when you’re following a Renal-Friendly diet. But you may need to limit protein, and it’s no secret that some meats (especially processed meats) are high in sodium. Is there an alternative? How about a plant-based option? Mushrooms make a great meat substitute, are savory in flavor, and a good source of fiber. Try:

Spinach Mushroom Lasagna with Garlic Green Beans

Hungry for more Renal-Friendly meals made from fresh ingredients, and ready to eat in minutes. Check out the complete menu here.