Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly. The management of CKD often involves addressing underlying causes, controlling symptoms, and slowing the progression of the disease. Diet is an essential part of managing CKD, and one method that is sometimes used in managing the diet for kidney disease is the plate method. Let’s look at some kidney friendly meal ideas together.
The plate method is a simple approach to portion control, focusing on balanced meal planning. It involves visualizing a plate as a way to structure your meals in a way that supports kidney health and plan kidney friendly meal ideas. Here’s how it’s typically broken down:
- Half of the plate should be non-starchy vegetables: Try picking two types of vegetables per plate to add variety. Vegetables are also a great source of fiber.
- A quarter of the plate should be lean protein: This includes options like chicken, turkey, fish, or plant-based protein sources. Protein intake is usually limited for CKD patients because the kidneys struggle to process protein waste products. Speak to a Registered Dietitian to determine your protein needs.
- A quarter of the plate should be grains or starches: This can include rice, pasta, bread, or potatoes, but portion control is key to help manage weight and blood sugar levels, which can impact kidney health. Aim to include complex carbohydrate, for example, whole grains, as part of your grain and/or starches.
Here are a few examples of meals using the plate method that can be an option for someone with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). These examples focus on the key areas of controlling portion sizes while ensuring proper nutrient balance when you are meal planning.
Kidney Friendly Meal Ideas Example 1
Grilled Chicken with Vegetables
A quarter of the plate (grains/starches): A small portion of wild or brown rice.
Half the plate (non-starchy vegetables): Steamed broccoli and carrots.
A quarter of the plate (protein): A small serving of grilled chicken breast. Protein intake needs to be controlled, so a modest portion is recommended.
Kidney Friendly Meal Ideas Example 2
Salmon with Roasted Veggies
- Half the plate (non-starchy vegetables): Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and green beans. These are nutritious, low-potassium options that add variety.
- A quarter of the plate (protein): A serving of baked or grilled salmon, which is a healthy protein source with omega-3 fatty acids.
- A quarter of the plate (grains/starches): A small baked potato.
Kidney Friendly Meal Ideas Example 3
Tofu Stir-Fry
- Half the plate (non-starchy vegetables): Stir-fried spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms. These are flavorful vegetables that also provide good fiber and antioxidants.
- A quarter of the plate (protein): Tofu, which is a plant-based protein source, is a great choice for those looking to limit animal proteins.
- A quarter of the plate (grains/starches): A small serving of quinoa.
Things to consider
When planning kidney friendly meal ideas remember to think about what your kidney diet needs. Things like:
- Portion sizes: For someone with CKD, portion control is vital, especially for protein, since kidneys may struggle with filtering excess protein waste.
- Low-potassium and phosphorus options: Depending on your lab values, potassium and/or phosphorus intake may need to be monitored, this is more common in later stages of CKD. A Registered Dietitian can help you understand your blood work and determine if you need to limit potassium and/or phosphorous in your diet.
This article was written by Antonia Zettas, RD.