what foods are good for dogs with kidney problems
The 20 Best Foods for People with Kidney Disease
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If you have kidney disease, you may need to follow a special diet, usually low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium. This may not heal your kidneys, but it can help make them healthier.
When your kidneys arent working properly, waste builds up in the blood, including waste products from food. People with kidney disease can benefit from following a special diet known as a renal diet.
Here, we look at 20 of the 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
At any stage, the diet will need to boost kidney function while
While dietary restrictions vary, people with kidney disease typically need to restrict the following nutrients. The kidneys may have difficulty removing or processing these nutrients, and high levels can cause damage to the body.
Since kidney disease has close links with heart disease, its 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.
Everyones experience of kidney disease varies, so its important to talk with a doctor about your individual 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
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
- 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
Theyre also low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium.
One cup (148 g) of fresh blueberries
- 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
Three ounces (85 g) of cooked sea bass
- sodium: 74 mg
- potassium: 279 mg
- phosphorus: 211 mg
- protein: 20 g
However, the
One portion is 23 ounces of chicken, fish, or meat, or a piece around the size of a deck of cards.
Red grapes are a
One half-cup (75 g) of red grapes
- 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
Two large, raw egg whites (66 g)
- 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.
Its a good source of manganese and vitamin B6. It also
Three cloves (9 g) of garlic
- sodium: 1.5 mg
- potassium: 36 mg
- phosphorus: 14 mg
- protein: 0.5 g
Buckwheat is a whole grain thats low in potassium. It also contains B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and fiber.
Its also gluten-free, making it suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
A half cup (85 g) of buckwheat
- 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. Its also phosphorus-free, making it a suitable option for people with kidney disease.
Most of the fat in olive oil is oleic acid,
Whats more, monounsaturated fats are stable at high temperatures, making olive oil a healthy choice for cooking.
One tablespoon (14 g) of olive oil
- 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 (70 g) serving of cooked bulgur
- sodium: 154 mg
- potassium: 48 mg
- phosphorus: 28 mg
- protein: 2 g
Cabbage belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family and provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds.
The authors of a
- manage blood sugar
- reduce the risk of kidney and liver damage
- prevent oxidative stress and obesity
A cup (70 g) of shredded savoy cabbage
- sodium: 20 mg
- potassium: 161 mg
- phosphorus: 29 mg
- protein: 1.4 g
Skinless chicken breast has less fat and phosphorus than chicken with the skin on.
One cup (140 g) of cooked, skinless chicken breast
- sodium: 104 mg
- potassium: 358 mg
- phosphorus: 319 mg
- protein: 43 g
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
One medium red pepper (100 g)
- 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.
Sauting 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
One small onion (70 g)
- 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.
Arugula provides vitamin K, manganese, and calcium, all of which are important for bone health.
This nutritious green also contains nitrates, which can lower blood pressure an important benefit for those with kidney disease.
One cup (20 g) of raw arugula
- sodium: 5 mg
- potassium: 74 mg
- phosphorus: 10 mg
- protein: 0.5 g
Most nuts are high in phosphorus and are not suitable if youre following a renal diet.
But macadamia nuts are a delicious option for people with kidney problems. Theyre lower in potassium and phosphorus than peanuts or almonds.
They also provide calcium, healthy fats, folate, magnesium, copper, iron, and manganese.
One ounce (28 g) of macadamia nuts
- sodium: 1.4 mg
- potassium: 104 mg
- phosphorus: 53 mg
- protein: 2 g
Radishes are crunchy vegetables that make a nutritious addition to a renal diet. Theyre very low in potassium and phosphorus but contain other important nutrients, such as folate and vitamin A.
Their peppery taste makes a flavorful addition to low sodium dishes.
A half cup (58 g) of sliced radishes
- sodium: 23 mg
- potassium: 135 mg
- phosphorus: 12 mg
- protein: 0.4 g
Turnips are root vegetables that provide fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.
They can be roasted or boiled and mashed for a healthy side dish that works well for a renal diet. Alternatively, serve raw, grated turnips with a salad or add them to a winter stew.
A half-cup (80 g) of cooked turnip cubes
- sodium: 160 mg
- potassium: 159 mg
- phosphorus: 22 mg
- protein: 1 g
Pineapple can make a sweet treat for people with kidney conditions. Its lower in phosphorus, potassium, and sodium than oranges, bananas, or kiwis.
Pineapple is also a good source of fiber and vitamin A, and it contains bromelain, an enzyme that
One cup (165 g) of pineapple chunks
- 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 and kidney infections
Cranberries are also low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium.
There are close links between urinary tract infections (UTI) and kidney infections, and a UTI
You can eat cranberries dried, cooked, fresh, or as a juice.
One cup (100 g) of whole, fresh cranberries
- 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. Theyre 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.
Theyre an excellent source of B vitamins, copper, manganese, and selenium. They also provide a good amount of plant-based protein and dietary fiber.
Shiitake mushrooms are lower in potassium, sodium, and phosphorus than
One cup (145 g) of cooked shiitake mushroom pieces without added salt
- sodium: 6 mg
- potassium: 170 mg
- phosphorus: 42 mg
- protein: 2 g
What is the best diet for kidney disease and kidney failure?
It
How can I make my kidneys stronger again?
The National Kidney Foundation recommends the following to help keep your kidneys healthy:
- 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
What is the best drink for healthy kidneys?
Water is the best option as it flushes out the kidneys without adding stress due to toxins. Theres also
Unsweetened cranberry juice is also a good option, as it contains antioxidants that may help protect the kidneys from infections. You might also try rice milk thats not enriched with potassium or phosphorus.
Limit or avoid alcohol, as this can increase your chances of developing several health problems.
What are 10 foods that are bad for the kidneys?
Foods to avoid if you have kidney disease are mainly those that are high in sodium, phosphorus, or both.
Here are some items 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
- high fat items and any food thats not heart healthy
- alcohol
- packaged foods with labels that have PHOS on them (standing for phosphorus)
- deli meats
- bran cereals and oatmeal
Learn more about which foods to avoid if you have kidney disease.
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, its best to speak with a doctor 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.
LetsGetChecked
What To Feed a Dog With Kidney Disease
Nutrition plays a big role in the management of dogs with kidney disease. Because dogs with kidney disease usually arent feeling well, the first step is often to merely get your dog to eat anything.
Kidney disease can make dogs nauseated, and they can also develop ulcers in their mouth or stomach, which makes eating painful. A feeding tube may be necessary to get dogs with severe kidney disease the nutrition they need.
Once your dogs condition is more stable, you can turn your attention to providing more optimized nutrition. Kidney diets for dogs have to tick a lot of boxes. Heres a guide that explains nutritional needs and what to feed a dog with kidney disease.
What To Look For in a Kidney Diet for Dogs
Kidney diets for dogs are significantly different from regular dog foods. However, no single kidney diet is going to be best for every dog throughout the rest of their life.
For example, a dog in the early stages of kidney disease could thrive on a kidney diet with more protein, but as their disease progresses, a diet lower in protein and phosphorus might better control their symptoms.
As a rule of thumb, good kidney diets for dogs tend to have anutrient profilethat looks like this:
Nutrient | Grams/1000 kcal |
Protein | 31-41 |
Phosphorus | 0.5-0.8 |
Sodium | 0.4-1.2 |
EPA and DHA | 0.4-1.2 |
Unfortunately, it can be hard tofind this information on dog food labelsor on pet food manufacturers websites. If you are having trouble getting the numbers, your veterinarian can help you pick a good kidney diet based on your dogs needs.
Here are several important elements to look for in kidney diets for dogs:
Taste
The most important characteristic of a kidney diet for dogs can be the hardest to achieve: It has to be delicious! Thats because the metabolic and physical changes associated with kidney disease can lessen a dogs appetite.
To counteract this effect, kidney diets need to smell and taste great. After all, a kidney diet that isnt eaten isnt going to do a dog any good. Kidney diets should also be calorie- and nutrient-dense, so dogs can eat less and still get a lot of nutrition.
Hydration and Water Content
Kidney diets should also contain a lot of water. Dogs with kidney disease struggle to maintain their hydration. All dogs always need to have access to bowls of fresh clean water, but a diet that has high water content is a great way to boost a pets water intake when they have kidney disease.
Wet foods are almost always a better option for dogs with kidney disease than dry foods. If you are feeding your dog kibble, ask your veterinarian about adding water to the dry food or other ways you can supplement their water intake.
It's also important to keep an eye on the sodium levels in kidney diets for dogs. Too much sodium increases the chances that your dog will becomedehydrated.
The Right Amount of the Right Protein
Next comes the balancing act that is protein. Dogs with kidney disease need protein, but not too much. The breakdown products of protein digestion are responsible, in large part, for making dogs with kidney disease feel yucky.
The goal is to feed just enough protein to meet a dogs needs for muscle maintenance, immune function, and the other vital jobs proteins have in the bodybut not to feed too much more. Extra protein will only be turned into calories that can be more safely provided by carbohydrates and fats.
Protein quality is also important. Proteins should be highly digestible and supply all the essential amino acids dogs need.
Low Phosphorus Levels
Theres a close relationship between protein intake and blood phosphorus levels. Dogs with kidney disease gradually lose the ability to excrete phosphorus in their urine, so it backs up in the bloodstream. Reducing phosphorus intake has been shown to slow the progression of kidney disease in dogs and increase their lifespan.
An important way to reduce phosphorus levels in the diets of dogs with kidney disease is to not overfeed protein and to ensure thatproteins relatively low in phosphorusare included in the diet. Plant-based sources of protein tend to be lower in phosphorus than animal-based sources of protein.
Supplements
Nutritional supplements can also help dogs with kidney disease. Supplements often included in kidney diets for dogs include:
Omega-3fatty acids:eicosapentaenoicacid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which can reduce inflammation in the bodyincluding in the kidneysand possibly improve kidney function
Antioxidants,which neutralize free radicals that can further damage the kidneys
Fermentable fiber,which helps get rid of protein digestion waste products in poop. This allows dogs to eat more protein than they might be able to otherwise.
Prescription Kidney Diets vs. Homemade Kidney Diets for Dogs
What abouthomemade kidney diets for dogs? Astudypublished in 2012 showed how hard it is to find nutritionally complete and balanced kidney diet recipes in books and online. Of the 39 recipes evaluated, none met all the National Research Councils recommended nutrient allowances for adult dogs.
In contrast, prescription kidney diets produced by reputable dog food manufacturers undergo testing to ensure they are safe for long-term feeding and have a positive effect on a dogs health.
How To Cook for Dogs With Kidney Disease
One big benefit of homemade kidney diets, however, is taste. If your dog simply wont eat anything else, a homemade kidney diet is worth considering. To avoid nutrient deficiencies or excesses, make sure a veterinary nutritionist or a service likeBalanceIT, which requires veterinarian approval, is involved in formulating recipes for your dog.
Common Prescription Kidney Diets for Dogs
After a dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease and their condition is stabilized, veterinarians typically recommend switching over to a prescription kidney diet. Your veterinarian may have recommended a particular food based on the details of your dogs case. Here are three popular options:
Hill's Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Careis available in wet and dry formulations and different flavors:
How To Transition Your Dog to a Kidney Diet
special attention to how you make the transition. Do notchange your dogs foodwhile they are still nauseated or feeling bad. They may associate their symptoms with their new food and refuse to eat it.
Once your dog has a good appetite, start making the switch very slowly. Give them lots of time to get used to the new flavors, textures, and ingredients. This reduces the chance of food refusal and lets your dogs digestive system adapt.
Here is a timetable for taking two weeks to switch your dog to a new diet:
Days 1 and 2:Mix 5% of the new food in with 95% of the old food
Days 3 and 4:Mix 10% of the new food in with 90% of the old food
Days 5 and 6:Mix 20% of the new food in with 80% of the old food
Days 7 and 8:Mix 40% of the new food in with 60% of the old food
Days 9 and 10:Mix 60% of the new food in with 40% of the old food
Days 11 and 12:Mix 80% of the new food in with 20% of the old food
Days 13 and 14:Mix 90% of the new food in with 10% of the old food
Day 15:Try 100% of the new food
If at any point your dog turns their nose up at their food or develops signs of digestive upset, move back a step in the timetable and proceed more slowly.
Signs to Watch for After Starting Your Dog on a Kidney Diet
Dont give up if you initially have trouble switching your dog to a kidney diet. Call your veterinarian if your dog wont eat the recommended food. They can help by:
Recommending an appropriate food topper to make the food more appealing. Avoid products that are high in phosphorus and salt.
Prescribing medications to reduce nausea, stomach inflammation, ulcers, or other symptoms that may be reducing your dogs appetite
Recommending a different prescription kidney diet or, if necessary, a suitable over-the-counter food
Referring you to a veterinary nutritionist to get recipes for homemade kidney diets
Talking to you about the benefits of a feeding tube
Many dogs with kidney disease live happily for quite a long time, particularly if they get the right kind of nutrition. Onestudyshowed that on average, dogs who were fed a kidney diet lived 13 months longer than those who ate regular dog food. Thats certainly a goal worth striving for!
Featured image: iStock.com/RichLegg
WRITTEN BY
Jennifer Coates, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Jennifer Coates is an accomplished veterinarian, writer, editor, and consultant with years of experience in the fields of veterinary...
