Foods to Avoid With Kidney Problems

Processed and Fast Food
Too Much Protein
Foods High in Potassium and Phosphorus
A Word of Caution

Written by Patricia Culpepper

18 December, 2018

The kidneys filter waste from the blood and maintain the right balance of fluid in the body. They also play an important role in regulating blood pressure. In general, people with impaired kidney function are advised to eat a diet that supports healthy blood pressure and good blood sugar control. This means avoiding foods high in salt, sugar and trans fats. It may also be important to avoid excessive protein consumption and foods high in potassium and phosphorus. Specific dietary restrictions should be discussed with your doctor since individual requirements vary.

Processed and Fast Food

Processed and fast foods are often high in salt, sugar and unhealthy fats. Avoiding these is a good idea for anyone with kidney problems. This includes snack foods like chips, crackers and cookies as well as prepackaged frozen meals, canned soups and other convenience foods. Even foods that may seem healthy -- like canned vegetables and fruits -- may be high in salt or sugar. Low-sodium canned or frozen vegetables and fruits packed without added sugar are a good option when fresh produce is not available.

Processed and fast foods are often high in salt, sugar and unhealthy fats.
Even foods that may seem healthy -- like canned vegetables and fruits -- may be high in salt or sugar.

Too Much Protein

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You may need to limit the amount of protein you eat since excessive protein intake can make kidney problems worse. The National Kidney Disease Education Program advised in June 2014 that people with chronic kidney disease limit daily protein consumption to roughly 0.36 to 0.45 g per pound of body weight 1 3. This moderate approach to protein consumption provides approximately 54 to 67.5 g of protein daily for a 150-pound person and allows for a modest serving of protein with each meal.

You may need to limit the amount of protein you eat since excessive protein intake can make kidney problems worse.
The National Kidney Disease Education Program advised in June 2014 that people with chronic kidney disease limit daily protein consumption to roughly 0.36 to 0.45 g per pound of body weight 1.

Foods High in Potassium and Phosphorus

Depending on the type and severity of kidney problems you are experiencing, you may be advised to limit foods high in potassium and phosphorus since these minerals can build up in the blood when the kidneys are not functioning properly. Your health care provider may advise you to avoid salt substitutes that might be high in potassium and limit foods that are potassium-rich. Foods high in phosphorus include most soft drinks, dairy products, nuts, liver and beans.

A Word of Caution

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When your kidneys are not functioning normally, your blood might become too acidic or your potassium levels might rise to abnormal levels -- which can be influenced by your diet. Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms.