Low-quality chocolate containing high levels of milk, sodium, sugar, and preservatives is far from a healthy option. On the other hand, high-quality dark chocolate containing a high percentage of cocoa (above 85%) offers health benefits if you have kidney disease.
Here are some bakery foods that are kidney-friendly: Sugar cookies. Shortbread cookies. Vanilla wafers.
Dark chocolate and milk chocolate both contain a significant amount of phosphorus. Phosphorus can build up in patients on dialysis and cause significant problems with bone disease and itching.
Foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt, such as crisps, chocolate, biscuits and cakes, can be included in your diet. However, because they do not contain good nutrients, they should only be included in small amounts occasionally.
Chocolate, or the compounds within it, does not have any known negative effect on kidney function. However, if you already have kidney disease you may have to limit your intake of chocolate due to the high content of potassium or other minerals.
Consuming a cocoa product could help patients with kidney failure to improve their blood vessel function, according to research published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. Share on Pinterest Cocoa flavanols may help the heart and the kidneys.
4. Put limits on phosphorus- and potassium-laden foods. To keep phosphorus and potassium levels at a minimum, cut out or reduce your intake of dairy products (milk, cheese, ice cream, creamy soups, chocolate), dried beans, peas, nuts and peanut butter.
Many refreshing summertime frozen favorites, such as ice cream and milk shakes, are off limits on the dialysis diet or for anyone concerned about phosphorus. Milk-based recipes are high in phosphorus and potassium.
Choose soy, almond, cashew, or rice milk for less phosphorus and less potassium than cow's milk. Avoid cow's milk substitutes that are "Enriched" or have the word phosphorus or "phos" in the ingredient list. For a change, try hot cereal like oatmeal, cream of wheat, cream of rice, or Malto-meal.
If possible, make meat sandwiches from low sodium, fresh-cooked meats such as chicken, turkey breast, roast beef, pork or fish. Use meat leftover from dinner, or cook fresh meat specifically for lunch sandwiches. Consider freezing cooked meat in 2- to 3-ounce portions until needed.
Snack foods such as chips, crackers, and pretzels are typically high in salt and refined carbs, which makes them unsuitable for those with kidney disease and diabetes. Some snack foods, such as potato chips, are also high in other minerals, such as potassium or phosphorus, either naturally or as a result of additives.
Desserts can be extra challenging, but it's possible to have your cake and eat it too! Some kidney-friendly choices include berry pies, cobbler, angel food cake, pound cake or lemon meringue. These are often low in calories and potassium. Steer clear of the salt shaker.
A one-ounce portion of white chocolate contains just 50 milligrams of phosphorus. A 3.5-oz bar will contain approximately 175 milligrams of phosphorus. Given that people with kidney issues often have trouble controlling their phosphorus levels, chocolate may be one of the first things to limit.
Avoid pizza with extra cheese as a topping. Pasta is low in potassium, phosphate and salt and makes a good choice when eating out. If possible order the sauce on the side to allow you to control how much you add. Olive oil and garlic, cream, white wine sauce or pesto are good choices.
Foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt, such as crisps, chocolate, biscuits and cakes, can be included in your diet. However, because they do not contain good nutrients, they should only be included in small amounts occasionally.
Yogurt is packed with protein, a nutrient in high demand for dialysis patients. It's also a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Although high in potassium and phosphorus, dietitians may recommend limiting to a 4-ounce portion if you are following a low-potassium, low-phosphorus kidney diet.
Dairy products contain high amounts of phosphorus, potassium, and protein and should be limited on a renal diet.
Chocolate and nuts contain high amounts of phosphorus and potassium. Your dietitian can help you see which candy is acceptable and which is not. Here are examples of candy types that are not recommended for people with kidney disease or on dialysis. Reese's® Peanut Butter Cups, pieces, etc.
Is peanut butter bad for kidneys? A. According to a study, peanuts contain oxalates, a mineral that can induce the development of kidney stones. Therefore, even though peanuts are heart-healthy and rich in protein, people with kidney disease should not consume them.
Beta-Carotene Benefits
Beta-carotene, the water-soluble form of vitamin A in carrots, helps the kidneys filter toxins out of the blood and prevent urinary tract infections, according to Dr. George D.