otherwise stated by your doctor.
9. Nuts
Though nuts are considered to be a healthy snack for most people, they contain too much potassium and phosphorous for those with kidney issues. You’ll be better off snacking on a few choice fruits or vegetables.
10. Beans
Though studies show that beans can be a good source of plant protein for those with kidney disease, they also have large quantities of potassium and phosphorous. Since a small amount of beans in your diet might be beneficial, you should talk to your doctor.
11. Leafy Green Vegetables
Leafy greens like Swiss chard, spinach, and beet greens usually contain high amounts of potassium. However, avoiding these will mean finding different sources of iron.
12. Processed Meats
Processed meats are usually preserved in a variety of ways, including salt-based curing. As a result, they’re too high in sodium for those with kidney issues.
13. Dark Sodas
Typically, dark sodas contain a high amount of phosphorous. It’s best to remove these from your diet.
14. Dried Fruits
Many people opt for dried fruits as snacks or as part of their breakfast. If you have kidney problems, however, they have too much potassium for you. Those high levels occur because drying concentrates all their nutrients.
15. Ready-To-Eat Snacks
Most ready-to-eat snacks like pretzels, crackers, and chips contain too much salt for you. You’ll be healthier if you find better snack options.
RELATED: 3 Great Kidney Friendly Dinner Recipes
How To Get The Nutrients You Need
As a consequence of cutting out certain foods, your diet might be lacking in certain nutrients. The first place to start is having a talk with your doctor or nutritionist about what you need. It’s possible that you’ll be able to eat certain foods in moderation or if prepared in a particular way.
For example, though people with kidney damage are usually advised to avoid potatoes, some of them are able to eat them if the skin is removed and they’re soaked in water before boiling.
Finally, it’s common for those with compromised kidneys to take supplements for calcium, iron, and other nutrients. If you opt for this route, it’s essential to consult with your doctor as not all supplements will be good for your kidneys.
When you’re diagnosed with kidney problems, several things about your life will change. One of those things will be your diet. As you’re maneuvering your new eating habits, it’s important to talk to your doctor about what you can eat and how to get all the nutrients you need to stay healthy.