If you’ve just had a kidney transplant or if you’re wondering what foods your kidneys will thrive on, South Texas Renal Care Group is here to help. Our goal is for your kidneys to be healthy and functional, and that starts with what you eat. Similar to your liver, your kidneys also filter out waste and toxins. Therefore, while water is the most important thing you can consume for optimal kidney health, it’s essential to maintain a diet full of the nutrients your body needs to help your kidneys function properly. While these foods won’t cure kidney disease, they can help you manage your kidney health better, relieving symptoms and working to help prevent future issues. Please note this is not medical advice nor a formal treatment plan; only your doctor can recommend proper care for you.
Best Foods to Support Kidney Health
Whether you are recovering from a kidney transplant, worried about kidney disease, or just want to take care of your health, here are some kidney-friendly foods:
- Leafy Greens: kale, arugula, spinach, and cabbage
- Fruits: Berries, grapes, apples, pineapples, cherries, pomegranates
- Vegetables: bell peppers, green beans, cauliflower, onions, tomatoes, avocado, beans, broccoli, carrots, squash
- Citrus fruits: lemons, oranges, grapefruits
- Nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Opt for low-sodium bread and white rice instead of brown
- Protein: eggs, fish, shellfish, yogurt, tofu, and chicken
- Cheeses: Low-phosphorus and low-sodium cheeses, such as ricotta, goat, muenster, monterey jack, shredded parmesan, mozzarella, brie, and swiss
Foods to Avoid Before and After a Kidney Transplant
Processed foods and those high in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus can be hard on your kidneys. Because these components are rich and heavy, your kidneys have to work overtime to filter them out. Avoid these kidney traps:
- Soda and sugary drinks – this includes store-bought juice, sparkling water, and sweet tea
- Sandwich meat/ deli meat: Processed meats are high in sodium
- Butter, margarine, and mayonnaise, which are high in saturated and trans fats
- Frozen, pre-made meals
- Salty snacks, such as chips and pretzels
- Salad dressing and pickled foods
- Red meat
Recommended Meals
Avoiding certain foods and seasonings after a kidney transplant can sound daunting, but it doesn’t mean your meals have to be boring. Here are some meal ideas you and your kidneys will love that use the above recommended foods to support kidney health:
- Lemon salmon with steamed asparagus
- Acai bowls
- Salads with leafy greens and berries
- Chicken-stuffed bell peppers
- Fideo (vermicelli noodles)
- Vegetable or bean soup
- Chicken and white rice with roasted cauliflower
- Egg white omelettes with spinach and avocado
- Sandwiches with low-sodium bread and shredded chicken or turkey
- Turkey lettuce wraps with cucumber yogurt sauce
When seasoning your food, be sure to use salt-free seasoning and sauces.
Taking Care of Your Kidneys After A Kidney Transplant
Navigating food choices for kidneys with compromised function can be confusing, especially since some foods are good for your kidneys when consumed in small amounts but can be harmful if eaten in large amounts. Different patients process phosphate, potassium, and sodium differently after a kidney transplant, so be sure to ask your kidney specialist if there’s a specific ingredient to watch out for. At South Texas Renal Care Group, we take you and your kidney health seriously.
Contact us to schedule an appointment with our nephrologist team today.
