Navigating Restaurant Menus with Kidney Disease: Steakhouse

Living with kidney disease requires attention to dietary choices, and eating out at restaurants can present a unique set of challenges as these foods can often be higher in sodium and protein. However, with tips, tricks and planning, you can still enjoy dining out without compromising your kidney health. In this blog post, we’ll explore some practical tips and strategies for making informed choices when eating at restaurants including navigating restaurant menus with kidney disease.

Know Your Dietary Needs Helps To Navigate Restaurant Menues

Before heading to a restaurant, it’s crucial to be aware of your specific dietary needs. Consult with your registered dietitian to understand the limitations of your kidney-friendly diet like how much protein or sodium you should be having each day. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions when perusing the menu.

Choose Kidney-Friendly Restaurants

Opt for restaurants that offer healthier and customizable menu options. Many establishments are now conscious of dietary restrictions and provide nutritional information on their menus. If possible, review the restaurant’s menu online before visiting. Navigating restaurant menues with kidney disease allows you to research and plan your order in advance, reducing the pressure of making on-the-spot decisions.

Below are some of my top choices when eating out at steakhouses. This was a popular topic in the Facebook Community Kidney Support: Nutrition, Recipes and Tips for CKD. While there are lots of benefits to eating plant-based diet with CKD, some still include animal proteins, that is a personal choice, and this post is here to help you choose kidney-friendly options wherevever you eat.

The Keg

Appetizers and Salads

Mixed Garden (126 mg sodium and 3 g protein)
Caesar (460 mg sodium and 6 g protein)

Mains

Teriyaki Sirloin (3 oz or half portion 385 mg sodium and 26 g protein)
Grilled Top Sirloin (3 oz or half portion 465 mg sodium and 20 g protein)
Oven baked salmon (half portion 395 mg sodium and 21 g protein)

Sides

Baked potato (340 mg sodium and 12 g protein)
Mushroom rice (380 mg sodium and 4 g protein)
SautÃ©d vegetables (530 mg sodium and 4 g protein)
Caesar Brussels Sprouts (410 mg sodium and 10 g protein)

Baton Rouge

Appetizers and Salads

Â Mixed Garden with oil and vinegar (460 mg sodium and 10 g protein)
Caesar (520 mg sodium and 12 g protein)

Mains

BBQ Pork Back Ribs (5 oz = half portion 475 mg sodium and 27 g protein)
Chicken with tomato concassÃ© and fresh herbs (half portion 310 mg sodium and 36 g protein)
Santa Fe Chicken (half portion 485 mg and 42 g protein)
Top Sirloin Classic (half portion 575 mg sodium and 22 g protein)
Atlantic Salmon (half portion 135 mg sodium and 26 g protein)

Sides

French fries (115 mg sodium and 5 g protein)
Seasonal vegetables (125 mg sodium and 3 g protein)
Baked potato (190 mg sodium and 3 g protein)
Caesar salad (260 mg sodium and 6 g protein)

Be Mindful of Portion Sizes When Navigating Menus With Kidney Disease

Restaurants often serve larger portions than necessary. Be mindful of portion sizes, and don’t hesitate to ask for a half portion or share a dish with a dining companion. Controlling portions helps manage your intake of phosphorus, potassium, and sodium, which are crucial considerations for those with kidney disease.

Customize Your Meal

Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications to suit your dietary needs when navigating menus with kidney disease. Most restaurants are accommodating and can prepare dishes with reduced salt or substitute certain ingredients. For example, request sauces and dressings on the side to control sodium intake. Be sure to navigate restaurant menus with kidney disease to look for ways to customize your meals.

Communication Is Key

Inform your server about your dietary restrictions and ask questions about how dishes are prepared. A knowledgeable server can provide valuable insights and help ensure your meal aligns with your kidney-friendly diet.

So When You Head Out Next To Navigate Menus With Kidney Disease

Dining out with kidney disease requires a proactive and informed approach. By understanding your dietary restrictions, choosing wisely, and communicating effectively with restaurant staff, you can enjoy delicious meals while prioritizing your kidney health. With these tips, you’ll be better equipped to navigate restaurant menus and savour the dining experience without compromising your well-being. For more tips on fast food with CKD or eating out, check out this post.