Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): What Foods To Include and What To Avoid

Managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) through diet can be tricky if we don't know what foods are permitted and which ones to avoid. Here in this section, we have mentioned some foods that most people are familiar with and consume readily that may not be helping with kidney disease management while others that can be consumed in limited portions. 

Overall, minerals such as sodium, potassium and phosphorus are usually the ones that are restricted in the diet (hence foods that contain them) based on individual health parameters, alongwith with the macronutrient protein. 

Foods To Avoid (CKD)

1. Bread: whole wheat (has high phosphorus and potassium)
2. Brown Rice: high phosphorus and potassium 
3. Banana: high potassium 
4. Dairy: high potassium, phosphorus and protein 
5. Cold Drinks: contain phosphorus as additive 
6. Citrus Fruits: oranges (high potassium)
7. Processed Foods: meats, snacks, ready to eat, chips, bhujia (high salt)
8. Achar/Pickle: high salt
9. Papad: high salt
10. Potatoes & Sweet Potatoes: high potassium 
11. Tomatoes: high potassium 
12. Green leafy vegetables: high potassium 
13. Dates, Raisins, Prunes, Apricot: high potassium

Food To Include (CKD)

1. Egg Whites
2. Garlic, Onion
3. Buckwheat (Kuttu Atta)
4. Cauliflower, Green Beans, Peas
5. Brinjal
6. Olive oil
7. Almonds, Walnuts, Chia seeds & Flaxseeds
8. Chicken Breast (skinless)
9. Radish, Turnips, Carrot, Cucumber 
10. Chilies
11. Pineapple (one cup), Apple, Papaya, Pear, Watermelon, Grape, Plum
12. Cranberries, Blueberries (handful) 

This is just a basic generalized list of food items that may be restricted and included in the diet. Every individual patient is different and hence requires an individualised approach to manage their health. Kidney disease if accompanied with diabetes or cardiovascular disease or even hypertension would require further restriction and diet management, in which food lists may change. 

For personalised recommendations, it is best to consult with a qualified health care practitioner.

For diet counselling and diet planning services feel free to book a session with us.

Clinical Dietitian Keshav || MSc Dietetics (DFSM), PGND, CNCC