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Kidney Disease: Changing Your Diet

Table of Contents


Overview

When you have chronic kidney disease, you need to change your diet to avoid foods that make your kidneys worse. You may need to limit salt, fluids, and protein. You also may need to limit minerals such as potassium and phosphorus. A diet for chronic kidney disease takes planning. A dietitian who specializes in kidney disease can help you plan meals that meet your needs.

These guidelines are for people who are not on dialysis. Talk with your doctor or dietitian to make sure your diet is right for your condition. Do not change your diet without talking to your doctor or dietitian.


How to eat when you have kidney disease

When you have kidney disease, making changes to your diet can help protect your kidneys. It can also help you control other diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, that can make kidney disease worse.

These are general food guidelines for people who have kidney disease. Be sure to follow the diet your doctor or dietitian gave you.

These diet tips are not for you if you are on dialysis or have had a kidney transplant. Follow the special diet your doctor gave you.


Credits for Kidney Disease: Changing Your Diet

Current as of: September 20, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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