It Rolls, It Roasts, and It Stir Fries—What More Could You Want!? For foods containing low potassium, cabbage is a versatile vegetable and perfect for those following a renal diet!
Cabbage is a powerhouse vegetable often overlooked in the produce aisle. It’s not only budget-friendly and easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a perfect choice for anyone following a renal diet. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, support your kidney function, or simply add some variety to your meals, cabbage can do it all for foods containing low potassium.
What are the health benefits of cabbage?
For foods containing low potassium, cabbage is low in potassium with 1/2 cup raw containing 63 mg, which is a key consideration for those on a renal diet. It is also high in fiber, which helps support digestive health and regularity. Adding on, just a half cup of cabbage contains a third of the vitamin C needed in a day. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect against cellular damage and supports immune function. Cabbage is rich in other vitamins, such as vitamin K which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Cabbage is kidney-friendly and can be a healthy, nutrient-dense addition to your diet. It’s also hydrating, as it has a high water content, which can be beneficial for people with kidney concerns.
Green or red cabbage for foods containing low potassium
Both green and red cabbage offer excellent health benefits, but there are a few differences between the two:
- Green Cabbage: This variety is the most commonly used in cooking. It has a milder flavor and is great for salads, slaws, and stir-fries..
- Red Cabbage: Red cabbage is more dense and has more of a peppery taste. Its vibrant colour comes from anthocyanins, which has been shown to reduce kidney injury to treat pre-existing chronic kidney disease.
Both types are extremely versatile and nutrient-dense, so you can choose based on your preference or use them interchangeably in recipes for foods containing low potassium.
Ways to use cabbage
Cabbage can be used in a variety of dishes, from fresh salads to savory cooked meals. Here are a few ideas on how to include this versatile vegetable into your diet:
- Raw in Salads: Cabbage, especially green cabbage, is crunchy and refreshing in salads.
- Roasted: Roasting cabbage brings out its natural sweetness.
- Stir-Fried: Stir-fried cabbage is quick and easy to prepare. It absorbs the flavors of your favorite seasonings, creating a delicious dish.
- Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: Cabbage leaves can be stuffed with a variety of fillings, from grains and vegetables to lean meats, for a nutritious and balanced meal for foods containing low potassium.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Green cabbage thinly sliced
- 2 cups Red cabbage thinly sliced
- 2 cups Carrots shredded
- 1 Bell pepper thinly sliced
- ¼ cup Olive oil
- 3 TBSP Lemon juice
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- ½ tsp Cumin
Instructions
- 1. Combine the cabbage, carrots and peppers in a large bowl
- 2. Make the dressing in a separate bowl by mixing the olive oil, lemon juice/ apple cider vinegar, garlic, cumin together
- 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and top with the nuts and seeds
Notes
This foods containing low potassium around the world
Cabbage doesn’t have to be bland or boring! It is a beloved ingredient in many cultures, each with its unique spin on this humble vegetable. Here are a few cabbage dishes from countries around the world.
Japan: Okonomiyaki
- Okonomiyaki is a savoury cabbage pancake typically made with flour, grated yams (nagaimo), eggs, shredded cabbage and toppings such as shrimp, pork, rice cakes and vegetables. Once it’s cooked, the pancake is topped with Japanese mayonnaise, bonito flakes, seaweed and a sweet, tangy and umami okonomiyaki sauce.
Ethiopia: Ataykit Wat
- This is a flavorful Ethiopian dish made with cabbage, carrots, and potatoes sauteed in an aromatic blend of spices and served with injera. The dish is nutrient-packed and offers a warming, hearty option for anyone looking to enjoy cabbage in a new way.
Jamaica: Jamaican Steamed Cabbage
- Steamed cabbage is a popular Jamaican dish that combines cabbage, carrots, onions, and bell peppers. The vegetables are seasoned with thyme, garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper, giving it a flavorful, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with any main dish.
Ukraine: Holubtsi
- Holubtsi is a cabbage roll stuffed with a mixture of protein, rice and onions. After stuffing the rolls, they are baked in a tomato based sauce and topped with sour cream. It’s Ukrainian comfort food that everyone will love!
Including cabbage in your renal diet
Cabbage is so much more than a simple side dish and a foods containing low potassium —it’s a healthy, versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re stir-frying, roasting, or rolling it, this humble vegetable brings a variety of nutrients and flavour to your plate. So, if you’re looking for ways to improve your kidney health or simply expand your culinary repertoire, cabbage is the way to go!
This article was written by Rachel Lo, Nutrition Student Volunteer.
This article was reviewed by Emily Campbell, RD CDE MScFN.
