The 20 Best Foods for People with Kidney Disease

Dietary restrictions vary depending on the level of kidney damage. People with later-stage kidney disease will have different limits from those with early kidney disease.

The diet will need to boost kidney function at any stage while lowering the risk of further damage.

Since kidney disease is closely linked to heart disease, it’s best to combine these choices with a heart-healthy diet — one that contains plenty of fresh, plant-based foods and is low in saturated fats.

Individuals with kidney disease have a unique experience, so it’s important to talk with a doctor about your specific dietary needs.

Here are 20 foods that may improve kidney health or prevent it from worsening:

Cauliflower provides many nutrients, including vitamin K, folate, and fiber. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Try mashed cauliflower in place of potato for a low potassium side dish.

One-half cup or about 62 grams (g) of boiled cauliflower without salt contains:

• sodium: 9.3 milligrams (mg)
• potassium: 88 mg
• phosphorus: 20 mg
• protein: 1 g

Blueberries are rich in nutrients and antioxidants known as anthocyanins, which may protect against heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases.

They’re also low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium.

One cup (148 g) of fresh blueberries contains:

• sodium: 1.5 mg
• potassium: 114 mg
• phosphorus: 18 mg
• protein: 1 g

Sea bass is a fish option that provides high quality protein. It also contains healthy fats called omega-3s. Omega-3s may help prevent a range of diseases and boost the health of those living with long-term conditions.

Three ounces (85 g) of cooked sea bass contains:

• sodium: 74 mg
• potassium: 279 mg
• phosphorus: 211 mg
• protein: 20 g

One portion is 2–3 ounces of chicken, fish, or meat, or a piece around the size of a deck of cards.

Red grapes are a good source of antioxidants called flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions.

One half-cup (75 g) of red grapes contains:

• sodium: 1.5 mg
• potassium: 144 mg
• phosphorus: 15 mg
• protein: 0.5 g

Egg whites provide a high quality, kidney-friendly source of protein that is low in phosphorus.

Egg whites may be a better choice than whole eggs for people on a renal diet, as egg yolks can be high in phosphorus.

Two large, raw egg whites (66 g) contain:

• sodium: 110 mg
• potassium: 108 mg
• phosphorus: 10 mg
• protein: 7 g

Garlic provides a tasty alternative to salt, adding flavor to dishes while also providing nutritional benefits.

It’s a good source of manganese and vitamin B6. It also contains sulfur compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.

Three cloves (9 g) of garlic contain:

• sodium: 1.5 mg
• potassium: 36 mg
• phosphorus: 14 mg
• protein: 0.5 g

Buckwheat is a whole grain that’s low in potassium. It also contains B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and fiber.

It’s also gluten-free, making it suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

A half cup (85 g) of buckwheat contains:

• sodium: 0.8 mg
• potassium: 391 mg
• phosphorus: 295 mg
• protein: 11 g

Olive oil is a healthy source of vitamin E and mostly unsaturated fat. It’s also phosphorus-free, making it a suitable option for people with kidney disease.

Most of the fat in olive oil is oleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

One tablespoon (14 g) of olive oil contains:

• sodium: 0.3 mg
• potassium: 0.1 mg
• phosphorus: 0 mg
• protein: 0 g

Bulgur is a whole grain wheat product and a kidney-friendly alternative to other whole grains that are higher in potassium and phosphorus.

Bulgur provides B vitamins, magnesium, and iron, as well as plant-based protein and fiber, which is important for digestive health.

A half-cup (91 g) serving of cooked bulgur contains:

• sodium: 5 mg
• potassium: 62 mg
• phosphorus: 36 mg
• protein: 3 g

Cabbage belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family and provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds.

The authors of a 2021 study note that cabbage contains bioactive compounds that might help manage blood sugar and reduce the risk of kidney and liver damage, though research in humans is needed.

White, green, and red cabbage may help:

• manage blood sugar
• reduce the risk of kidney and liver damage
• prevent oxidative stress and obesity

A cup (70 g) of shredded savoy cabbage contains:

• sodium: 6 mg
• potassium: 119 mg
• phosphorus: 18 mg
• protein: 0.9 g

Two or three ounces (85 grams) of cooked, skinless chicken breast contains:

• sodium: 64 mg
• potassium: 220 mg
• phosphorus: 196 mg
• protein: 27 g

NIDDK advises people with kidney disease to limit portions of meat and fish to 2–3 ounces, as high protein levels can make your kidneys work harder.

Bell peppers are high in vitamins A and C and other antioxidants but low in potassium.

These nutrients are important for immune function, which is closely linked with kidney disease.

• sodium: less than 2.5 mg
• potassium: 213 mg
• phosphorus: 27 mg
• protein: 1 g

Reducing salt can be challenging, but onions are one way of providing sodium-free flavor to renal diet dishes.

Sautéing onions with garlic, olive oil, and herbs can add flavor to dishes without compromising your kidney health.

Onions provide vitamin C, manganese, and B vitamins, including folate. They also contain prebiotic fibers that help keep your digestive system healthy by feeding beneficial gut bacteria.

• sodium: 3 mg
• potassium: 102 mg
• phosphorus: 20 mg
• protein: 0.8 g

Arugula is a flavorful and nutrient-dense green that is low in potassium, making it a good choice for kidney-friendly salads and side dishes.

• sodium: 5 mg
• potassium: 74 mg
• phosphorus: 10 mg
• protein: 0.5 g

Many nuts are high in phosphorus. Depending on the stage of your kidney disease, you may choose to eat nuts or limit them.

If you choose to eat nuts, macadamia nuts are a delicious option for people with kidney problems. They’re lower in potassium and phosphorus than peanuts or almonds.

They also provide healthy fats, folate (vitamin B), and the following minerals:

• calcium
• magnesium
• copper
• iron
• manganese

One ounce (28 g) of macadamia nuts contains:

• sodium: 1.4 mg
• potassium: 104 mg
• phosphorus: 53 mg
• protein: 2 g

Radishes are crunchy vegetables that are nutritious additions to a renal diet. They’re very low in potassium and phosphorus but contain other important nutrients, such as folate and vitamin C.

Their peppery taste makes a flavorful addition to low sodium dishes.

A half cup (58 g) of sliced radishes contains:

• sodium: 23 mg
• potassium: 135 mg
• phosphorus: 12 mg
• protein: 0.4 g

Turnips can be roasted or boiled and mashed for a healthy side dish that is suitable for a renal diet. Alternatively, serve raw, grated turnips with a salad or add them to a winter stew.

A half-cup (78 g) of cooked (boiled) turnip cubes contains:

• sodium: 25 mg
• potassium: 276 mg
• phosphorus: 41 mg
• protein: 1 g

Pineapple can be a sweet treat for people with kidney conditions. It is lower in phosphorus, potassium, and sodium than oranges, bananas, or kiwis.

Pineapple is also a good source of fiber and vitamin C, and it contains bromelain, an enzyme that may help reduce inflammation.

One cup (165 g) of pineapple chunks contains:

• sodium: 2 mg
• potassium: 180 mg
• phosphorus: 13 mg
• protein: 1 g

Cranberries contain phytonutrients called A-type proanthocyanidins. These are antioxidants that may prevent urinary tract infections by reducing bacteria levels in urine.

Cranberries are also low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium.

You can eat cranberries dried, cooked, fresh, or as a juice.

One cup (100 g) of whole, fresh cranberries contains:

• sodium: 2 mg
• potassium: 80 mg
• phosphorus: 11 mg
• protein: 0.5 g

Shiitake mushrooms are a savory ingredient that you can use as a plant-based meat substitute. They’re suitable for people with kidney disease who follow a plant-based diet and anyone on a renal diet who needs to limit their protein intake.

They’re an excellent source of B vitamins, copper, manganese, and selenium. They also provide a good amount of plant-based protein and dietary fiber.

One cup (145 g) of cooked shiitake mushroom pieces without added salt contains:

• sodium: 6 mg
• potassium: 170 mg
• phosphorus: 42 mg
• protein: 2 g

It may not be possible to heal your kidneys, but according to the NIDDK, it may be possible to manage your kidney disease with dietary changes such as:

• manage high blood pressure levels
• maintain ideal blood sugar levels
• avoid eating too much protein
• lower your salt intake
• avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), aspirin, and naproxen (Naprosyn)
• get your annual flu shot

Water is the best option as it flushes out the kidneys without adding potassium or phosphorus. Unsweetened cranberry juice is also a good option, as it contains antioxidants that may protect against urinary tract infections. You might also try rice milk that’s not enriched with potassium or phosphorus.

Limit or avoid alcohol, as this can increase your chances of developing several health problems.

Foods to avoid if you have kidney disease are mainly those that are high in sodium, phosphorus, or both. Individual dietary choices will depend on your stage of kidney disease and blood tests.

Ultimately, people with CKD need to consult with a dietitian for personalized advice.

Here are some items you may want to avoid or limit:

• processed foods or premade meals, which tend to have added sodium
• canned foods with added salt — opt for salt-free or rinse them before using them
• large portions of protein foods, such as meat or dairy foods
• alcohol
• deli meats

People with kidney disease have to manage their intake of phosphorus, salt, and potassium. At certain stages, they may also need to limit their protein intake.

As nutritional needs and restrictions change during the course of the disease, it’s best to speak with a doctor or registered dietitian before making any dietary changes. They will help you work out a diet suitable for you.

Suitable options may include chicken, shiitake mushrooms, cranberries, macadamia nuts, and a wide range of other tasty and nutritious foods.