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Home » Patients » Managing my disease » 10 Dietary Tips to Help Preserve Your Kidney Function
The kidneys play a crucial role in eliminating toxins, regulating fluid and mineral balance, and producing essential hormones. A well-adapted diet can slow down the progression of kidney disease and help maintain kidney function.
Here are 10 tips for adopting a kidney-protective diet34,35 :
1. Control Your Salt Intake
Excess salt contributes to high blood pressure and increases the workload on your kidneys. It is recommended to keep salt consumption below 6g per day. Use herbs, spices, and lemon to flavor your meals instead of table salt. Avoid processed foods, deli meats, and ready-made meals high in sodium.
2. Balance your Protein Intake
Proteins are essential, but excessive consumption can accelerate kidney deterioration. Before dialysis, it’s recommended to consume 0.8 to 1g of protein per kg of body weight per day. Opt for plant-based proteins (legumes, whole grains) as they produce fewer metabolic waste products.
3. Monitor Your Potassium Intake
Potassium is essential for muscle and heart function, but excess levels can be dangerous in advanced kidney disease. Limit potassium-rich foods like bananas, potatoes, spinach, and tomatoes. Soaking vegetables and changing cooking water can help reduce potassium levels.
4. Reduce Phosphorus Consumption
High phosphorus levels can weaken bones and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Limit dairy products, sodas, processed foods, and processed meats. Choose natural calcium sources like green vegetables.
5. Stay Properly Hydrated
Water helps the kidneys filter toxins. The ideal amount depends on your health status and your doctor's recommendations. In advanced kidney failure, fluid restriction may be necessary to avoid water retention.
6. Favor an Alkaline Diet
Kidney disease can make the blood more acidic. To restore balance, increase alkaline foods like fresh fruits and vegetables while limiting acidifying foods such as red meat, cheese, and refined cereals.
7. Avoid Ultra-Processed Foods
Food additives, preservatives, and artificial colorings found in processed meals, fast food, and sodas increase the toxic burden on the kidneys. Choose homemade meals with fresh, natural ingredients.
8. Control Your Sugar and Refined Carbohydrate Intake
Diabetes is a major cause of kidney disease. To stabilize blood sugar levels, prioritize complex carbohydrates (whole grains, legumes) and limit fast sugars (pastries, sodas, candies).
9. Be Cautious with Medications and Supplements
Some NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and dietary supplements (especially those containing herbs) can be harmful to the kidneys. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication or supplement.
10. Maintain a varied diet suited to your stage of kidney disease
Nutritional needs change as the disease progresses. Regular follow-ups with a dietitian or nephrologist are essential to adjust your diet and help preserve kidney function as much as possible.
