Foods to Eat and Avoid During Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. It can lead to various complications, including high blood pressure, anemia, bone disease, and heart disease. Proper diet and nutrition are key to managing CKD and slowing its progression. If you have CKD, it’s important to be mindful of what you eat, as certain foods can either support kidney health or exacerbate the condition. In this article, we’ll explore the foods you should focus on and those you should avoid to help manage CKD and promote better kidney health. Ayurvedic treatment for chronic kidney disease advises the patients to take the following diet measures:

First, having low-protein foods will lead to reduced protein intake during the earlier stages of CKD to less burden on the kidneys. Nevertheless, protein is an integral nutrient, so that high protein quality, low protein sources, which provide all essential amino acids without overloading the kidneys, should definitely be in focus. Some of the noteworthy examples include:

• Egg whites: Egg whites are rich in superior proteins, with minimal phosphorus and potassium.
• Lean meats and poultry: low amounts of lean meats, like chicken and turkey, are generally considered great for the kidneys.
• Fish: Fatty types of fish such as salmon and mackerel prove to be fruitful sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Tofu and tempeh: these are plant-based sources of protein showing less phosphorus and potassium than animal proteins; further, this kind of protein is less aesthetically pleasing than meat but easier to eat.Fruits and Vegetables (in moderation)

Fruits and vegetables play an integral role in a balanced diet as they provide critical vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. But, with CKD, you have to consider the potassium and phosphorus levels in some fruits and vegetables. Chronic kidney disease treatment in Ayurveda advises the following fruits and veggies to patients:

• Apples, berries, grapes, pineapples: These fruits are lower in potassium and phosphorus, so they are safer choices for CKD patients. 
• Cauliflower, cabbage, bell peppers and carrots: The vegetables have low potassium content and high in fiber and help improve digestion and strengthen the renal function.

Whole Grains (in moderation): Whole grains, like oatmeal, quinoa and whole wheat bread, contain important fiber, which helps control blood sugar and lower cholesterol. But because they contain phosphorus, people with CKD should limit their intake. Including small portions of whole grains can provide the needed nutrients without overwhelming the kidneys.

Healthy Fats

Healthy fats are essential for heart health, particularly in patients with CKD, given the close interplay between the kidneys and the heart. Make sure to include some healthy fats in your diet such as:

• Olive oil: A good source of monounsaturated fats that can support heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Avocados: Though higher in potassium, avocados provide healthy fats and are often recommended in moderation for kidney patients, as they offer benefits like improved heart health and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Nuts and seeds: These can be eaten in small amounts as a source of healthy fats and protein, but be mindful of portion sizes due to their phosphorus content.

Low-Sodium Foods

One of the first steps in managing CKD is cutting back on sodium intake because elevated sodium levels can cause other health problems like high blood pressure and fluid retention that can impede kidney function. Eat more fresh, whole foods instead of processed or packaged food. Dr. Puneet Dhawan of Karma Ayurveda Hospital advises the renal patients to include the following food items:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Unsalted nuts and seeds
• Meals prepared at home—without salt added
• Nature boosts like basil, garlic and ginger to flavor food rather than salt

Foods to Avoid During Chronic Kidney Disease

High-Protein Foods

It is important to understand that protein is necessary for a healthy body, but in excess can put stress on the kidneys, particularly in CKD. High protein foods to limit or avoid include:

• Red meats: Beef, lamb and pork tend to be rich in protein and phosphorus, which may strain the kidneys.
• Processed meats: Bacon, sausage, and deli meats are high in protein, but they also contain plenty of sodium and preservatives.
• Cheese: Although cheese can offer calcium and protein, it is extremely rich in phosphorus

High-Potassium Foods

With progressive loss of kidney function, the ability of the kidneys to excrete potassium is diminished. High potassium can cause life-threatening heart rhythm disturbances. Here’s a list of foods high in potassium that should be limited:

• Fruits high in potassium: Bananas, oranges and avocados Potatoes, tomatoes and spinach: These are also potassium-rich vegetables and should be eaten in moderation.
• Dried fruits: Concentrated potassium sources, including dried apricots, raisins and prunes, should be limited.

High-Phosphorus Foods

As kidney function declines, the kidneys’ ability to excrete phosphorus from the blood diminishes, contributing to a build-up that can adversely affect the health of bones. You would limit foods high in phosphorus, including:

• Nuts and seeds: These foods contain healthy fats and are high in phosphorus. 
• Dairy products: Milk, cheese, and yogurt are good sources of phosphorus and calcium, but when eaten in high amounts they may lead to excess phosphate in the blood.
• Processed foods: Packaging/takeaway and processed foods often have added phosphorus in the form of phosphate additives, which can contribute to excess phosphorus levels.

High-Sodium Foods

Too much sodium can increase blood pressure and lead to fluid retention, factors that further impair kidney function. It is very important to avoid high salt foods. These include:

• Canned soups and vegetables: Usually full of salt and preservatives. 
• Fast food: Often full of bad fat and sodium.
• Snack foods: Potato chips, pretzels and packaged snacks are high in sodium.

Conclusion

Diet is an integral part of managing and reducing the progression of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) while also preventing complications. A kidney-friendly diet consists of low-protein, low-potassium, and low-phosphorus foods, and limiting high-sodium, high-protein, and processed foods. Work with a healthcare provider or dietitian to best develop an eating plan that not only helps achieve your nutritional needs but accommodates the details of your kidney condition. However, if your symptoms are severe then visiting a reliable hospital like Karma Ayurveda will be wiser so that you do not have to experience any repercussions.