Traditionally, white bread was recommended for people with kidney disease because it has less potassium and phosphorus.
cereals. Pick those that do not contain dried fruit, nuts or chocolate. Good options include porridge, cornflakes, Rice Krispies, Weetabix, shredded wheat, Special K and Cheerios.
For people who are limiting phosphorus and potassium in their diet, white or wild rice is recommended over brown rice, because brown rice is rich in these minerals.
In short, most meats, fish, and seafood are considered high in potassium. Some of the lowest potassium meats are clams, oysters, and tuna. Chicken and turkey aren't considered low potassium meats, but they are lower than other types of meats.
Low potassium (best choice)
Cereals that are free from bran, dried fruit, nuts and chocolates such as: Weetabix®
Low potassium vegetables include cilantro, alfalfa sprouts, lettuce, arugula, kale, Napa cabbage, leeks, spaghetti squash, sweet onions, eggplant, and more. For more low potassium vegetable ideas, see the complete ranking of over 200 vegetables low in potassium.
The lowest of low potassium cheese is goat cheese! This soft cheese provides just 7 milligrams of potassium per ounce.
Sourdough contains a variety of vitamins and nutrients, making it super beneficial to your day-to-day health. Sourdough bread has small to moderate amounts of: iron, manganese, calcium, B1-B6, B12, folate, zinc, potassium, thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, selenium, iron, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin E.
White bread is typically recommended over whole wheat bread on a renal diet due to its lower phosphorus and potassium levels. All bread contains sodium, so it's best to compare food labels and choose a lower sodium variety.
Blueberries and kidney disease
A ½ cup serving of blueberries has less than 150 milligrams potassium making them a low potassium fruit choice. Blueberries are also low in sodium and phosphorus making them suitable for a kidney friendly diet.
Choose soy, almond, cashew, or rice milk for less phosphorus and less potassium than cow's milk.
Water pills (diuretics) help rid your body of extra potassium. They work by making your kidney create more urine. Potassium is normally removed through urine. Potassium binders often come in the form of a powder.
Foods low in potassium include most refined fats and oils, grains like cornmeal, white rice, and pasta, cheeses like soft goat cheese, and blueberries, eggs, leeks, Napa cabbage, and chia seeds. Boiling vegetables in water and discarding the water can help reduce their potassium and electrolyte content.
While couscous provides a small amount of potassium, fruits and plant-based foods, such as avocado, bananas or potatoes, are far better sources of potassium. Couscous is high in carbs and may not be the best choice for individuals with blood sugar issues, celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
Low-Potassium Protein Foods
A 1-ounce serving of broiled salmon supplies 106 milligrams of potassium, while 2 ounces of lean beef gives you 150 milligrams. Other protein options that fall into the lower-potassium range include: 1/4 cup of lentils. 1/2 cup of soy or cow's milk.