Navigating Food Labels with Kidney Disease

Living with kidney disease doesn’t mean never eating something out of a package again. Because there are lots of nutritious foods that still come in packages; like beans, legumes, tofu, nuts and seeds for example. But monitoring nutrient intake becomes important with kidney disease, and one effective tool in this endeavour is understanding how to decipher food labels. By learning how to navigate food labels, you can make informed decisions with kidney disease that supports your health and well-being. Let’s dive into the key parts of food labels and provide tips for incorporating them into a kidney-friendly diet.

Understanding Food Labels

Food labels offer important insights into the nutritional content of packaged foods. While they may appear daunting at first glance, breaking them down into manageable components can simplify the process with kidney disease. Let’s look at navigating the food label wtih kidney disease together.

1. Serving Size

• The serving size shows you how much nutrients are in a serving.
• This serving size is not always how much you may be eating. So remember you may need to do some math.
• The serving size is not always the recommended portion. So also keep that in mind.

2. Nutrient Content

• Look for nutrients relevant to kidney health, such as sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and protein.
• Opt for foods with lower sodium content, as excessive sodium increase blood pressure. Aim for 5% daily value or less per serving.
• If you need to limit foods high in potassium, the label can help.
• Always avoid foods with added phosphorus as this can lead to weakened bones.
• Monitor protein intake according to individual dietary requirements and stage of kidney disease.

3. % Daily Value

• The %DV indicates how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
• Foods with 5% or less mean there is a little of that nutrient in the product. This includes potassium.
• Foods with 15% or more means there is a lot of that nutrient in the product.
• Aim for foods with lower %DV of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, especially if these nutrients need to be restricted.

Navigating Food Labels with Kidney Disease

Here are some top things to focus on when reading food labels.

1. Focus on Whole Foods:
   • Whenever possible, choose whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and grains.
   • These foods typically have simpler ingredient lists and are naturally lower in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus.
2. Be Mindful of Sodium:
   • Select foods labeled as “low-sodium” or “no added salt”, these nutrient claims mean they will have less than 5% DV for sodium.
   • Always look for foods with 5% or less sodium per serving. And try to stick to the serving size.
   • Compare sodium content between similar products and opt for the one with the lower sodium content.
3. Watch for Hidden Phosphorus:
   • Check ingredient lists for phosphorus-containing additives such as phosphates (e.g., calcium phosphate, sodium phosphate). You can find them by looking for “PHOS” in the ingredient list.Choose Lean Protein Sources:
   • Opt for lean cuts of meat, poultry without skin, and fish.
   • Consider plant-based protein sources like beans, lentils, and tofu, which are lower in phosphorus and potassium.
4. Utilize Apps and Resources:
   • Explore smartphone apps designed to help track nutrient intake and decode food labels.
   • Consult reputable online resources or speak with a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.

So what’s next?

Reading food labels is a valuable skill for individuals managing kidney disease. By understanding the information presented on these labels and applying it to dietary choices, individuals can better control their nutrient intake and support kidney health. Remember to focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods, be mindful of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus levels, and utilize available tools and resources for additional support. With diligence and informed decision-making, navigating food labels can become an integral part of a kidney-friendly lifestyle. Check out the Kidney Nutrition Fast Track if you’re looking for more strategies to support your nutrition.