For a kidney-friendly lunch with CKD, focus on fresh, whole foods like lean proteins (chicken, fish, legumes), low-potassium veggies (peppers, onions, cauliflower), and whole grains (pita, brown rice), flavored with herbs instead of salt, and limit processed items; think salads with grilled chicken, tuna pasta salad with wholemeal pasta, hummus with veggies, or lentil soup. Always check with your doctor or renal dietitian for personalized guidance on protein, potassium, and sodium limits.
7 Quick Lunch Ideas for the Kidney Diet
A plant-based sandwich with crispy marinated tofu, fresh veggies, and hummus. A tasty, high-protein option that's low in fat and phosphorus. 2 Tablespoons hummus (For another level of flavor, try pumpkin pepper hummus as your hummus spread.) ¼ cup fresh spinach (May substitute other greens instead of spinach.
A simple way to reduce sodium is to use fresh cooked turkey or chicken leftovers on your sandwiches instead of deli meat. Fresh meats (not enhanced or preserved) are naturally low in sodium.
Eat larger portions of fruits and vegetables, which are naturally low in phosphorus, and smaller portions of foods high in phosphorus. Keep in mind, your body absorbs more phosphorus from animal-based foods, such as meat and poultry, than from plant-based foods, such as beans and seeds.
Best Foods for Kidney Health
I recommend whole grain, whole wheat or multigrain bread for people with kidney disease. Be careful to check the sodium in whatever bread you buy. Bread is a surprising source of salt! Historically, white bread was recommended because it has less phosphorus in it.
For CKD, excessive intake of protein and sodium can be harmful to the kidneys. It is important to find lower sodium and lower protein meat and cheese options to help optimize your kidney health. Remember, portion size is key here. Try limiting your meats and cheeses to 1-2 slices instead of 4-5 slices.
Potassium and phosphorus content varies with the fish variety–catfish, cod, orange roughy, sea bass and sole are among the lowest. Salmon contains higher amounts of potassium and phosphorus but can still be worked into a kidney diet by combining it with lower potassium sides and adjusting phosphorus binders if needed.
Foods to avoid to reduce creatinine levels include processed meats, fried foods, high-sodium snacks, and excessive dairy.
If you find yourself occasionally craving a fast food hamburger, it's fine to have one every now and then. Remember to order your hamburger with no salt, pickles or grill seasoning, so you can limit sodium and potassium.
Side dish recipes
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)/Transplant
Most people with CKD do not have to limit leafy greens because of potassium. If your laboratory results show higher levels of potassium, your doctor or kidney dietitian may talk with you about how much to eat. People with kidney transplants should wash greens thoroughly.
What can I do to keep my kidneys healthy?
Kidney-friendly snacks at the grocery store
Low–Potassium Meats and Fish
Carrots are a good source of fiber, which is beneficial for kidney disease because it helps prevent constipation and regulate blood sugar. They're also not as high in potassium as many other fruits and vegetables, making carrots a safer choice for chronic kidney disease.
However, it is best to eat more plant sources of protein such as lentils, pulses, legumes, tofu or nuts and less meat, especially red meat. Oily fish like salmon, mackerel or sardines provide a source of omega-3 (a healthy fat). Enjoy one portion of fish per week.
Spread the sunflower butter on the slice of toast. Dot with berries of your choice. Sprinkle hot pepper flakes over the berries and toast. Drizzle with the honey.
To strengthen your kidneys, focus on a healthy lifestyle: stay hydrated with water, eat a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods, exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, while also managing blood pressure and blood sugar to prevent damage.
Grilled chicken wings are the lowest salt option at KFC, although remember that if you eat more than one the salt content can get very high. Another better option is the KFC snackers. Avoid fillet burgers, double downs and crispy twisters as they are extremely high in salt.
White bread has the least amount of potassium (well it contains the least amount of all nutrients!) but all bread is naturally low in potassium.
Top 15 Healthy Foods for People with Kidney Disease
Suitable bread types
White or brown pan loaf, baguettes, pitta bread, ciabatta, chapattis, white or granary bread rolls are all suitable. Your dietitian will decide if you can eat wholemeal bread based on your blood levels.