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Your kidneys are responsible for many important bodily functions. They filter out waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from your blood. They play a vital role in regulating electrolyte levels, such as sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, and maintaining a healthy balance of these minerals is crucial for kidney function. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition that leads to gradual loss of kidney function over time. While various factors can contribute to CKD, including genetics and underlying health conditions like diabetes and hypertension, according to the NIH, diet plays a significant role in managing the disease and slowing its progression.
In India, where cultural and dietary preferences vary widely, tailoring a kidney-friendly diet to suit local cuisine is important. Indian cuisine is rich in flavours and diversity that can be adapted to meet the dietary needs of kidney patients. In this blog, we will explore various Indian diet options tailored for diabetic and kidney patients.
Kidney Health and Functions: How Does Diabetes Affect It?
One of the functions of the kidneys is to filter out waste products and toxins from the blood. In addition to removing waste, the kidneys regulate the balance of fluid in the body. Maintaining kidney health is crucial for your overall health and vitality.
According to the NIH, kidney health is intricately linked to conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, which increase the risk of kidney disease. Diabetes can damage the kidney’s blood vessels over time, impairing their ability to filter waste, while chronic hypertension can lead to kidney damage and eventual failure. In cases of kidney failure, treatment options include kidney transplant or dialysis, which help to replace or supplement kidney function.
Lifestyle factors such as having enough water, a balanced diet, low sodium diet, minimising intake of processed foods, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can help support kidney function. Here’s a breakdown of key nutrients and their recommended daily intake for people with kidney disease:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sodium | Under 2 grams per day |
| Potassium | Depends on the stage of kidney disease |
| Phosphorus | 800–1,000 mg per day |
| Protein | Depends on the stage of kidney disease |
Read More: Is Carrot Good For Diabetes?
Healthy Foods for Your Kidney When You’re Diabetic
A renal kidney diet focuses on controlling the intake of certain nutrients, particularly sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. According to the National Kidney Foundation, high levels of these minerals can put strain on the kidneys and worsen CKD symptoms. By making mindful food choices and adhering to dietary restrictions, people with CKD can help preserve kidney function while improving their quality of life. Here are some options to get you through the day:
Morning Drink Options
Start your day on the right note with energising drinks that promote kidney health. Consider options like infused water with citrus fruits or a smoothie made with kidney-friendly ingredients like berries and leafy greens. You can also start your day with a cup of tea; it’s best to avoid milk in your tea. Accompany your tea with 2 ragi or oat biscuits to provide a light and nutritious start to your morning. If you have kidney stones, then avoid tea as it is one of the foods to avoid with kidney stones
Breakfast
Opt for low-phosphorus, protein-rich breakfast options such as egg white omelettes or whole grain cereals with fresh fruits. Avoid high-phosphorus food for kidney patients to minimise strain on the kidneys. Some foods good for kidneys are sago, cornflakes, oats, daliya, suji upma, idli, dosa, whole wheat bread, or roti (1 serving).
Mid-day Snacks
Satisfy your mid-day cravings with kidney-friendly snacks like raw or sauteed vegetables with hummus or a small serving of low-potassium fruits such as cherries or cranberries. You can also enjoy a serving of seasonal fruits good for kidneys, such as apple, pear, papaya, guava, jamun, pineapple, strawberries, cherries, or berries to keep your energy levels up.
Lunch
Have a balanced lunch comprising lean proteins like fish or poultry paired with non-starchy vegetables like cauliflower or arugula. Avoid high-sodium processed foods and opt for homemade meals seasoned with herbs like garlic. 2 chapattis (40 gm each) or a portion of rice (40 gm) are recommended. Include half a bowl of dal (Moong Dhuli, Arhar, or Malka – 15 gm) or 15 gm of paneer as a protein source. You may also add seasonal vegetables (100 gm), avoiding plak and green leafy vegetables Have a small serving of curd (100 gm) and use minimal oil for cooking.
Evening Snacks
Wind down with light snacks such as air-popped popcorn or a small portion of low-phosphorus cheese. Avoid high-sodium and phosphorus-rich snacks like chips or salted nuts.
Dinner
Avoid heavy or stimulating foods before bedtime. Explore versatile options like grilled chicken with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice. Incorporating olive oil as a cooking medium adds healthy fats while minimising sodium intake to match the recommended 1500mg for kidney patients. Some vegetables to reduce creatinine levels are bitter gourd, eggplant, carrot, cauliflower, red bell pepper, cucumber, and onions.
Read More: Is Sweet Potato Good for Diabetes?
Foods that Are Harmful to Kidneys
By being mindful of some foods, you can better support your kidneys and overall well-being. You might be surprised at some of the items on this list, but they are not good for kidney patients because of their excessive sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and protein contents. Ten foods bad for kidneys are:
Sodas
These beverages often contain phosphorus additives, which can be detrimental to kidney health. To support your kidneys, opt for lighter, phosphorus-free alternatives.
Avocados
While avocados are all the rage in the nutrition world, their high potassium content can strain your kidneys. Consider limiting your intake and exploring lower-potassium alternatives.
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Canned Foods
Most canned or packed foods are high in sodium, which can negatively impact kidney function. Look for low-sodium options or rinse canned foods before consuming them to reduce sodium intake.
Whole Wheat Bread
Despite being a healthier choice for some, whole wheat bread is higher in phosphorus and potassium. Monitor portion sizes or consider alternatives to manage your intake effectively.
Banana
Bananas are rich in potassium, making them less suitable for individuals with kidney concerns.
Explore lower-potassium fruit options to support your kidney health.
Dairy
Dairy products contain significant amounts of phosphorus and protein, which can strain the kidneys. Consider dairy alternatives with lower phosphorus and protein content.
Oranges and Orange Juice
These citrus fruits are high in potassium, which is not good for the health of a kidney patient. Try alternatives like grape or apple juice to manage potassium intake.
Read More: Diabetic Diet Chart by Dr. Mohammad Suleman
Processed Meats
Processed meats are often high in salt and protein, which can burden the kidneys.
Choose leaner protein sources to support kidney function.
Potatoes
They are high in potassium. A medium-sized baked potato contains about 610 mg of potassium. Boiling them in water before cooking can lower potassium levels by 50%, making them safer for kidneys.
Spinach
These leafy greens are also potassium-rich and, hence, bad for kidney patients. Boiling these greens shrinks them, potentially increasing potassium intake, which is particularly concerning for those with chronic kidney disease.
These are also the foods to avoid if your creatinine is high. Also, remember to:
- Monitor carbohydrate intake and manage blood glucose levels to control diabetic nephropathy effectively.
- Limit phosphorus-rich foods and consider phosphate binders to mitigate the risks associated with high phosphorus levels in kidney disease.
- Avoid a high phosphorus diet while incorporating alternative options to maintain a balanced diet for individuals with low potassium requirements due to kidney health issues.
Read More: The Health Benefits of Brown Rice
Diet Plan for Kidney Patients: Indian Diet Chart
Indian diet for kidney patients must include whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Specific attention must be paid to controlling the consumption of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus-rich foods, which are commonly found in traditional Indian dishes. Here’s a comprehensive Indian diet chart tailored specifically for kidney patients.
| Meal Time | Food Group | Foods to Include | Foods to Avoid with Kidney Disease and Diabetes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Protein | Egg whites, paneer, moong dal | Red meat, organ meats, processed meats |
| Carbohydrates | Rice flakes (poha), bread (whole wheat/ragi) | White bread, sugary cereals | |
| Vegetables | Bell peppers, spinach, cabbage, cauliflower | Tomato, potato, beans, lentils | |
| Snack | Fruits | Apple, pear, papaya, guava | Bananas, mango, grapes, watermelon |
| Nuts and Seeds | Almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds | Cashews, peanuts, pistachios | |
| Lunch | Protein | Grilled chicken, fish, tofu, dal (moong/masoor) | Red meat, fried foods, processed protein sources |
| Carbohydrates | Brown rice, roti (whole wheat/ragi) | White rice, refined flour (maida) products | |
| Vegetables | Bitter gourd, bottle gourd, ridge gourd | Spinach, potatoes, tomatoes | |
| Snack | Dairy | Yoghurt (low-fat), buttermilk | Full-fat dairy products, cheese |
| Whole Grains | Quinoa, oats, barley | White pasta, white bread, refined grains | |
| Dinner | Protein | Lentils (masoor, moong), cottage cheese (low-fat) | Kidney beans, black gram (urad dal) |
| Carbohydrates | Buckwheat (kuttu) roti, jowar roti | White rice, refined flour products | |
| Vegetables | Asparagus, broccoli, kale, zucchini | Brinjal, mushrooms, peas |
- Always consult a dietitian or a healthcare provider for personalised dietary recommendations.
- Portion sizes and frequency of meals may vary depending on individual requirements.
- Ensure adequate hydration by drinking water as per your doctor’s recommendations.
- Limit salt intake and avoid high-sodium processed foods.
- Monitor phosphorus and potassium levels in foods as per your doctor’s advice.
Read More: Is Sooji or Rava Good for Diabetes Patients?
Best Diabetic-Friendly Indian Foods for Healthier Kidneys
Here are some of the best Indian foods to eat with kidney disease that can support kidney health:
Moong Dal (Green Gram)
High in protein and low in potassium and phosphorus, moong dal is gentle on the kidneys and provides essential nutrients.
- Protein: 7g per 1/4 cup (uncooked)
- One of the low-potassium foods for kidney patients
Ridge Gourd (Turai)
Known for its diuretic properties, ridge gourd helps in flushing out toxins from the body and supports kidney function.
- High water content, aiding in hydration.
- Low in potassium and phosphorus.
- Contains dietary fibre, promoting digestive health.
Read More: Is Arbi Good for Diabetes Patients?
Bottle Gourd (Lauki)
It has high water content and low potassium levels.
- High water content, promoting hydration.
- Low in potassium and phosphorus.
- Contains vitamin C and magnesium.
Bitter Gourd (Karela)
Acts as a natural blood purifier and aids in detoxification, promoting kidney health.
- Acts as a natural diuretic, promoting detoxification.
- Low in calories and carbohydrates.
- Rich in antioxidants (vitamin C and flavonoids).
Cauliflower
Rich in vitamin C, fibre, and compounds that support liver and kidney health, cauliflower is one of the versatile and nutritious vegetables good for kidneys.
- High in vitamin C, providing antioxidant benefits.
- Low in potassium and phosphorus.
- Contains fibre, aiding in digestion and weight management.
Bell Peppers
Low in potassium and packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, bell peppers are kidney-friendly and help in reducing inflammation.
- Low in potassium.
- High in vitamin C, providing antioxidant benefits.
- Contains fibre and other vitamins and minerals like vitamin A and vitamin B6.
Read More: Quinoa and Diabetes
Apple
Being low-potassium fruit with soluble fibre, apples can help regulate your sugar levels and support overall kidney health.
- Low in potassium and phosphorus.
- Contains soluble fibre, promoting digestive health and regulating blood sugar levels.
Papaya
Contains digestive enzymes and antioxidants that aid in detoxification and support kidney function.
- Contains papain, an enzyme that aids in digestion.
- Low in potassium and phosphorus.
- Rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants.
Guava
Rich in vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants, guava is one of the foods that support kidney health and helps in maintaining blood pressure levels.
- Low in potassium and phosphorus.
- High in vitamin C and dietary fibre.
- Contains antioxidants like lycopene and flavonoids.
Coconut Water
A natural source of electrolytes and hydration, coconut water is low in potassium and supports kidney function.
- Natural source of electrolytes like potassium and sodium.
- Low in phosphorus.
- Hydrating and refreshing.
Read More: Is Anjeer Good for Diabetes Patients?
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
Some examples of foods with oxalates that people with kidney disease may need to limit include peanuts, rhubarb, spinach, beets, Swiss chard, chocolate, and sweet potatoes. Limiting the intake of these foods can be beneficial, especially for individuals prone to forming calcium oxalate stones, the most common type of kidney stone.
Specific foods to eat to prevent kidney stones are those that can help prevent their formation. Foods high in citrate, such as lemons, oranges, and melons, are beneficial, as citrate helps inhibit stone formation. Additionally, consuming calcium-rich foods like dairy products and leafy greens can also be helpful. It’s essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water as well.
Stage 4 kidney disease signifies a significant decline in kidney function, where kidneys are operating at a filtration rate of 15-29%. When coupled with diabetes, it requires close monitoring, adherence to treatment plans, and lifestyle modifications to slow down disease progression.
Life expectancy for diabetics with kidney disease varies depending on factors like overall health, extent of kidney damage, and adherence to treatment. With proper management and lifestyle changes, many can live for decades with kidney disease.
Diabetics can reduce the risk of kidney damage by managing their blood sugar levels through regular monitoring, adhering to a balanced diet low in sugar and refined carbohydrates, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and avoiding tobacco products.
Foods that are beneficial for diabetic and kidney patients include lean proteins like chicken and fish, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables (with moderation of those high in potassium and phosphorus), and healthy fats such as olive oil and avocado.
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