Living with Kidney Disease: Dining at family restaurants

Dining out with family can be a joyful experience, but for individuals living with kidney disease, it often comes with challenges. Family restaurants, with their tempting menus and hearty portions, can pose particular hurdles for those following a renal-friendly diet. But, with some awareness and strategic planning, it’s possible to enjoy meals out without compromising your kidney health. In this post, we’ll explore some tips and strategies for navigating family restaurants with kidney disease, ensuring a satisfying and health-conscious dining experience for everyone.

Understanding your needs when living with kidney disease

Kidney disease often necessitates strict adherence to dietary restrictions, primarily focusing on managing intake of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. Before heading to a family restaurant, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of these restrictions. A dietitian or your healthcare team can help you understand what foods to include when living with kidney disease.

Choosing the right restaurant when living with kidney disease

Not all family restaurants are created equal when it comes to accommodating dietary restrictions. When possible, opt for restaurants that offer customizable options or have a diverse menu with plenty of fresh, whole-food choices. Look for establishments that prioritize health-conscious cooking methods, such as grilling or steaming, over deep-frying or heavy seasoning.

When dining out with kidney disease, communication with your server is key. Don’t hesitate to inform them of your dietary restrictions and ask questions about menu options. Many restaurants are willing to accommodate special requests or make modifications to dishes to meet your needs. Requesting sauces or dressings on the side and asking for vegetables to be prepared without added salt can help tailor your meal to fit your dietary requirements.

Reviewing the menu

Before arriving at the restaurant, take some time to review the menu online if available. Look for dishes that are lower in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. Focus on lean protein sources like grilled chicken or fish, and seek out vegetable-based sides or salads. Be cautious of menu items that may be high in hidden salts or phosphorus additives, such as processed meats or cheese.

Family restaurants are notorious for serving large portions, which can be problematic for individuals with kidney disease. Practice portion control by splitting entrees with a dining companion or opting for smaller-sized portions if available. Avoid the temptation to overeat, as excessive food intake can put strain on your kidneys and exacerbate symptoms of kidney disease.

Let’s take a look at some options you could consider when dining at family resturants with kidney disease.

Swiss Chalet

Starters:

• Garden Salad (15 mg sodium and 1 g protein)
• Caesar Salad (no bacon or chicken 650 mg sodium and 7 g protein)
• Cheese Pierogis (1/3 420 mg sodium and 4 g protein)

Mains:

• Quarter Chicken Dinner (half portion 650 mg sodium and 32 g protein)
• 8 Wing Dinner (half portion 455 mg sodium and 39 g protein)

Sides:

• Fries (610 mg sodium and 8 g protein)
• Baked Potato (65 mg sodium and 5 g protein)
• Coleslaw (520 mg sodium and 2 g protein)
• Mixed vegetables (35 mg sodium and 3 g protein)
• Loaded baked potato (360 mg sodium and 14 g protein)
• Side Caesar Salad (no bacon or chicken 460 mg sodium and 4 g protein)
• Side Garden Salad (25 mg sodium and 1 g protein)

Milestones

Salads:

• California Spring Salad Starter (310 mg sodium and 6 g protein)
• Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad (440 mg and 11 g protein)

Mains:

• BBQ Back Ribs (half portion 700 mg sodium and 12 g protein)
• Mediterranean Chicken (half portion 740 mg sodium and 34 g protein)
• Grilled Sirloin or Fillet (3.5 oz = half portion 595 mg sodium and 23 g protein)
• Baja Fish Tacos (1200 mg sodium and 23 g protein)

Moxies

Appetizers:

• Tiny Tuna Taco (each 390 mg sodium and 10 g protein)
• Tofu Lettuce Wraps (3 servings 820 mg sodium and 7 g protein)

Mains:

• Sirloin (half portion 700 mg sodium and 22 g protein)
• Tenderloin (half portion 340 mg sodium and 15 g protein)
• Vegetarian Power Bowl (1380 mg sodium and 18 g protein)

Sides:

• Ancient grains (400 mg sodium and 10 g protein)
• Jasmine rice (370 mg sodium and 6 g protein)
• Seasonal vegetables (550 mg sodium and 1 g protein)

Cactus Club

Appetizers

• Crab Cake (490 mg sodium and 15 g protein)

Salads

• Raincoast Salad (460 mg sodium and 38 mg protein) dressings Sherry Vinegarette (55 mg sodium) or Lemon-Thyme Vinegarretee (115 mg sodium)
• Fresh Greens Starter (270 mg sodium and 4 g protein)

Mains:

• Butternut squash vegetarian ravioli (870 mg sodium and 14 g protein)
• Sirloin (4 oz = half portion 95 mg sodium and 24 g protein)
• Filet (3.5 oz = half portion 90 mg sodium and 21 g protein)
• Grilled Salmon (half portion 875 mg sodium and 18 g protein)
• Crab Cake Frites (half portion 880 mg sodium and 18 g protein)

You can still enjoy meals out with family

Eating out at family restaurants with kidney disease doesn’t have to be daunting when living with kidney disease. By understanding your dietary restrictions, choosing the right restaurant, reviewing the menu, communicating with your server, practicing portion control, and mindful eating, you can enjoy a satisfying and health-conscious dining experience with your loved ones. With these tips in mind, you can navigate family restaurants with confidence while prioritizing your kidney health. Remember, making informed choices today can lead to better outcomes for your kidneys tomorrow.