Experts share useful tips to help kidney patients celebrate Tet without worry

For people with chronic kidney disease, maintaining a healthy diet is essential to control symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

During the holiday season, with all the socializing and eating, sticking to kidney-friendly foods can be difficult. However, it is not impossible. Planning ahead for a kidney-friendly diet is one of the most effective strategies for managing chronic kidney disease.

Here, experts from the Texas Kidney Institute share tips to help you plan ahead for kidney-healthy meals during this joyous time.

During the holiday season, with all the socializing and eating, sticking to kidney-friendly foods can be difficult.

Monitor your sodium intake

Sodium intake can be especially important for people with chronic kidney disease, as their kidneys may have trouble filtering excess sodium from the body. To control sodium intake during the holidays, limit processed and canned foods and instead choose kidney-friendly foods like fresh fruits and vegetables.

Always remember to drink enough water

During the holidays, staying hydrated is important, especially for people with chronic kidney disease. These people are more susceptible to dehydration because their kidneys may not be able to properly regulate fluid levels. Be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid or limit alcohol, which can also cause dehydration.

Choose protein wisely

Too much protein can put extra stress on your kidneys. So people with kidney disease need to choose their protein sources carefully, looking for kidney-friendly foods. Choose lean proteins like fish and chicken over processed meats like sausages or hot dogs, according to the Texas Kidney Institute.

Potassium and phosphorus management

People with chronic kidney disease also need to monitor their potassium and phosphorus levels. Too much of these two substances can lead to complications in kidney patients.

During holiday meals, try to limit foods rich in potassium and phosphorus such as dark green leafy vegetables, potatoes and dairy products.

Choose kidney-friendly foods like blueberries, strawberries, apples, red grapes, pineapple, cabbage, bell peppers, cauliflower, onions, leeks, radishes, chicken, fish, egg whites, and olive oil.

Choose kidney-healthy foods like blueberries, strawberries, apples, red grapes, pineapple, cabbage, bell peppers, cauliflower, onions, radishes, chicken, fish, egg whites, and olive oil.

Enjoy kidney-friendly desserts

Holiday desserts are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats. Avoid candies, jams, and nuts as they are not good for people with kidney disease.

Use smaller plates

During the holidays, it’s easy to overeat and eat unhealthy foods. A simple trick to avoid this is to use smaller plates. This will naturally limit your portion sizes and help you make more conscious food choices, so you can enjoy all your favorite foods (kidney-friendly or not) in moderation.

Avoid processed meats

Processed meats are high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and other additives that can be harmful to people with kidney disease. Choose kidney-friendly foods like chicken or fish.

Find ways to stay active

This is important for maintaining overall health, including kidney health. During the holidays, it can be difficult to maintain exercise. However, finding small ways to stay physically active, like taking a walk after meals or dancing at parties, can make a big difference, according to the Texas Kidney Institute.

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