Traveling with Kidney Disease: Navigating Eating Habits

Traveling is an enriching experience, offering opportunities for exploration and adventure. But also to try new foods. But, for individuals with kidney disease, maintaining a balanced diet while on the go can present unique challenges. Dietary restrictions play a crucial role in managing kidney health, requiring careful planning and consideration, especially when away from home. In this blog post, we’ll discuss practical tips and strategies for eating healthily while traveling with kidney disease.

Understanding your diet needs

Before embarking on any journey, it’s essential to understand your dietary restrictions. Individuals with kidney disease often need to limit their intake of certain nutrients such as sodium and protein, but they may also need to be aware of potassium, and phosphorus. These restrictions help manage blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and overall kidney function. Meeting with a registered dietitian can help you understand your needs and help you plan for traveling with kidney disease.

Plan ahead

Planning is key to maintaining a healthy diet while traveling with kidney disease. Research restaurants and grocery stores at your destination that offer kidney-friendly options. Look for menus with low-sodium choices, fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean protein sources. Packing your snacks and meals can also be a convenient option, ensuring you have access to suitable foods throughout your journey.

Some kidney-friendly options while on the road could be:

Starbucks

Rolled Steel-Cut Oatmeal
Classic Almonds
Butter Gourmet Popcorn
Crispy Apple Chips
Apples, PB & Trail Mix Snack Box

Tim Horton’s

Donuts: Blueberry or Chocolate dip or Honey Cruller or Maple dip or Sour Cream or Strawberry Dip or Vanilla Dip or any Timbits up to 3
Baked goods: Plain or Chocolate Croissant, Bagel: Plain or Cinnamon Raisin with cream cheese/veggies or peanut butter
Breakfast: English Muffin with Egg and Cheese, Homestyle Biscuit Sandwich Simply Sausage (no hash brown), English Muffin Sandwich Simply Harvest (no hash brown), Yogurt Parfait
Soups: Garden Minestrone or Broccoli Soup (regular size)
Sandwiches: Caprese Sandwich, Classic Chicken Wrap

Read food labels

Become familiar with reading food labels to identify hidden sources of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. Pay attention to serving sizes and ingredient lists, and choose products with lower sodium and phosphorus content whenever possible when traveling with kidney disease. Look for labels indicating “low sodium” or “no added salt,” and opt for fresh or minimally processed foods over packaged or canned alternatives.

Be mindful of portions when traveling with kidney disease

While traveling, it’s easy to indulge in oversized portions or unhealthy snacks when traveling with kidney disease. Practice portion control by using smaller plates and bowls, sharing meals with travel companions, or requesting half-sized portions at restaurants. Avoid buffet-style dining, where it’s tempting to overeat, and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.

Stay active

Incorporating physical activity into your travel itinerary not only promotes overall well-being but also supports kidney health when traveling with kidney disease. Take advantage of opportunities for walking, hiking, or exploring your destination on foot. Pack comfortable walking shoes and aim to incorporate movement into your daily routine, even while on the road. Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise routine.