Indulging in a delicious scoop of ice cream on a hot day is a simple pleasure many of us cherish. However, for individuals with chronic kidney disease CKD, dietary restrictions can make this treat seem off-limits but that does not need to be the case. While it’s true that managing CKD requires careful attention to diet, it’s still possible to enjoy ice cream in moderation with some mindful planning. So you may be wondering, “what ice cream can I eat with CKD?”. Let’s scoop up some ice cream and kidney disease.
Ice Cream and Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease is a condition characterized by gradual loss of kidney function over time. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, and as their function declines, it becomes essential to follow a renal-friendly diet. Key dietary considerations for ice cream and kidney disease include controlling intake of:
- Phosphorus: High levels can weaken bones and harm blood vessels.
- Potassium: Excess potassium can affect heart function.
- Sodium: Reducing sodium helps manage blood pressure and fluid retention.
- Protein: Too much protein can strain the kidneys.
Ice cream typically contains phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and protein, making it important to choose your servings wisely. Here are some tips to help you enjoy ice cream without compromising your health for ice cream and kidney disease:
Portion Control: Stick to a small serving size, typically half a cup or less. This helps manage the intake of potentially problematic nutrients. For some more dessert tips, check out this post.
Check Nutritional Labels:Always read the nutritional labels to check for phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and protein content. Opt for brands that offer lower levels of these nutrients.
Choose Kidney-Friendly Options: Some brands offer ice cream or frozen desserts specifically designed for people with CKD. These options typically have reduced phosphorus, potassium, and sodium content.
Consider Non-Dairy Alternatives: Non-dairy ice creams made from almond, coconut, or rice milk can sometimes be lower in phosphorus and potassium. Again, checking labels is key.
Homemade Ice Cream: Making your own ice cream allows you to control the ingredients. Use kidney-friendly recipes like the Strawberry Ice Cream below and substitute high-risk ingredients with safer alternatives. Strawberries are now in season and a great kidney-friendly food.
Strawberry Ice Cream
Ingredients
- 2 cups Strawberries
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Almond milk, unsweetened
Instructions
- Slice the leaves off the strawberries and wash strawberries. Place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until completely frozen. (TIP: you can buy frozen strawberries to save time!)
- Once frozen, place the strawberries in a blender or food processor. Add the vanilla extract and almond milk. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer the mixture to a container and freeze for an additional hour to firm up. Scoop and enjoy your homemade kidney-friendly strawberry ice cream!
Notes
This article was written by Natasha Arabian, Nutrition Student Volunteer.
This article was reviewed by Emily Campbell, RD CDE MScFN.
