Salt, or sodium, is a common additive to many foods we enjoy, particularly processed foods. Healthy kidneys usually help maintain the right fluid balance, but if you have kidney disease, this may not be the case. So, avoid high-sodium products like soy sauce and packaged, processed foods. Choose low-sodium options and when cooking at home, try using spices and herbs for flavor, rather than adding salt. And leave the salt shaker off the table—it’s less tempting to use it.

Sliced cantaloupe melon on wooden cutting board

Potassium puts stress on your kidneys, so it must be limited in a kidney disease diet. Many fruits are high in potassium, such as melons, bananas, oranges, prunes and tomatoes, both eaten and in juices. The mineral is also higher in dairy products, avocados, bran, beans, lentils and nuts. You may be surprised to learn that dark-colored sodas are higher in potassium, as are fruit punches and prepared (canned and bottled) iced tea. Lower-potassium foods include apples, grapes, strawberries, cauliflower, white breads, pita, chicken and white rice.

Glass of milk with stack of chocolate sandwich cookies

Phosphorus helps your body form bones and teeth, and it helps your body use carbohydrates and fats. But it is restricted if you’re following a diet for stage 4 kidney disease. Foods to avoid include dairy products, chocolate, seasoned and processed foods, baking powder, whole-grain breads, bran cereal and oatmeal, nuts, sunflower seeds, and again, dark-colored colas.

Large chunk of Vermont white cheddar cheese

Another important mineral is calcium, but calcium is hard on the kidneys. The most widely known foods that contain calcium are dairy products, but it’s also found in many of the same foods that have high phosphorus levels. So, by avoiding those foods, you are helping decrease both phosphorus and calcium in your diet. If you take a calcium or vitamin D supplement, mention this to your doctor as you may have to stop taking it.

lose-up-of-three-white-red-rose-wine-glasses

Most people know alcohol can affect your liver, but did you know it also can affect your kidneys? Researchers have found if your liver is compromised or injured, your kidneys can become more damaged as they try to compensate for the injured liver when you drink alcohol. Alcohol is also dehydrating to your body and this can affect how well your kidneys filter out the toxins. In addition, high blood pressure is damaging to the kidneys and too much alcohol can raise blood pressure.