- 1). Replace high sodium foods with low sodium foods. Foods high in sodium will increase your blood pressure. High blood pressure can put damaged kidneys into an even worse state. Many snack foods high in sodium like potato chips have reduced sodium versions. Other snack foods have versions with no sodium, such as unsalted popcorn and pretzels. While cooking, forgo salt in place of other seasonings such as Italian herbs.
- 2). Control potassium intake. Since your body's main way of removing potassium from its system is through its kidneys, damaged kidneys will have a hard time handling large amounts of potassium on their own. The best solution to this problem is to reduce the amount of potassium consumed in your diet. Many fruits and vegetables contain high amounts of potassium. Some safe fruits and vegetables to add to your diet are berries, broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage.
- 3). Reduce your consumption of protein. Your kidneys must work harder to deal with the amount of protein waste generated by your body. By decreasing your protein intake, you are giving your kidneys a rest. Replace protein-heavy foods in your diet such as meat, eggs, seafood, and dairy products with all-around nutritious substitutes such as vegetables, grains, and fruit.
- 4). Maintain phosphorus intake. An excessive amount of phosphorus can lead to total kidney failure. It is important for you to avoid dairy products, nuts, beans and beer. Some suitable substitutes are sherbet, decaffeinated beverages and nonalcoholic beverages.
- 5). Avoid drinking too many fluids. Those with kidney problems may retain fluids, leading to swelling. Therefore, you should be careful not only about your intake of fluids, but also your intake of foods containing large amounts of fluids, like fruits. In your diet, replace juicy fruits such as apples, grapes and oranges with drier or dried fruits like raspberries, prunes and apricots.
SHARE
