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Urea and creatinine are waste products formed during protein metabolism. Normally, the kidneys filter these substances out of the blood, but when kidney function declines, their levels can rise, leading to serious health issues. A well-designed diet can help reduce the burden on your kidneys, improve their function, and lower urea and creatinine levels. Below, we’ll explore the key principles of a kidney-friendly diet.
Protein metabolism generates urea and creatinine, so limiting protein is crucial. For individuals with kidney issues, daily protein intake should be 0.6 - 1 gram per kilogram of body weight. Half of this should come from high-quality sources like lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy, while the other half can come from plant-based proteins like legumes, nuts, and whole grains.
• 30g of meat, chicken, fish, shrimp or 1 egg = 7 - 8g protein
• ½ cup cooked legumes = 7g protein
• ½ cup cooked grains = 2g protein
• 30g nuts = 5 - 7g protein
Note: Excessive protein restriction can lead to muscle loss and increased creatinine levels. It’s important to maintain a balance—too little protein can cause muscle loss and malnutrition. A dietitian or healthcare professional can help determine the ideal protein intake for you.
High sodium intake can raise blood pressure, increasing strain on the kidneys. Aim for less than 2,300mg of sodium daily (about 1 teaspoon of salt). Avoid processed foods, canned goods, and restaurant meals, which are often high in hidden sodium.
Here are some ways to cut down on sodium:
✔ Avoid processed foods, canned goods, and restaurant meals, as they often contain high amounts of salt.
✔ Use fresh ingredients instead of pre-packaged or processed foods.
✔ Season your meals with herbs and spices instead of salt.
Adequate water intake helps the kidneys flush out waste products like urea and creatinine. Aim for 6 - 8 glasses of water daily, but adjust based on your activity level, climate, and kidney function.
✔ Monitor your urine color: Pale yellow urine is a sign of good hydration, while dark yellow urine suggests that you need more fluids.
Warning: If you have advanced kidney disease or heart failure, consult your doctor to determine the right fluid intake.
Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which support kidney health. However, some are high in potassium, which can be harmful if kidney function is severely impaired. Opt for low-potassium options like:
Fruits: Apples, grapes, pears, peaches, berries, pineapples, and watermelon
Vegetables: Lettuce, cabbage, cucumbers, bell peppers, zucchini, and green beans
These options provide essential nutrients without overloading the kidneys with excess potassium.
If you have kidney disease or high creatinine levels, it's best to limit or avoid high-potassium foods, such as:
Fruits: Bananas, oranges, kiwis, avocados, melons (cantaloupe, honeydew), and dried fruits (dates, raisins)
Vegetables: Tomatoes, potatoes, spinach, sweet potatoes, beets, and pumpkin
If you need to eat high-potassium vegetables, you can reduce their potassium content by using the leaching method:
✔ Peel and cut the vegetables into small pieces.
✔ Soak them in warm water for 2 hours.
✔ Boil them in fresh water to remove more potassium.
In advanced kidney disease, phosphorus can build up in the blood, leading to bone and heart problems. Limit high-phosphorus foods like:
• Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese)
• Fish
• Nuts and seeds
• Legumes
• Egg yolks
• Cola drinks
Fried and fatty foods can worsen kidney damage by increasing inflammation and oxidative stress, which accelerates the progression of kidney disease. These foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sodium, and harmful compounds formed during frying, which put extra strain on the kidneys and cardiovascular system.
When cooking, opt for healthy, unsaturated fats to support kidney and heart health:
✔ Olive oil – Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
✔ Canola oil – Low in saturated fats and a good source of omega-3s.
✔ Avocado oil – High in monounsaturated fats, which protect heart health.
Instead of frying, use kidney-friendly cooking methods that preserve nutrients while reducing harmful effects:
✔ Steaming: Retains nutrients and requires no added fats.
✔ Boiling: Helps remove excess potassium from high-potassium vegetables.
✔ Baking or Roasting: Uses minimal oil and enhances flavor.
✔ Grilling: A great alternative to frying, but avoid charring the food.
✔ Sautéing: Use a small amount of heart-healthy oil instead of butter or margarine.
Foods to Avoid:
✔ Fried Foods: French fries, fried chicken, potato chips, fried snacks.
✔ Processed Meats: Sausages, bacon, hot dogs (high in saturated fats and sodium).
✔ Fast Food: Burgers, pizza, deep-fried dishes.
✔ Butter & Margarine: High in trans fats, which contribute to inflammation.