For people with kidney disease, diet is an important part of managing the condition. Kidney disease causes a buildup of wastes and fluid in the body, so eating the right foods can help minimize this. Many renal diets limit protein from meat and other animal sources. But not all meat is off limits if you have kidney problems. Let’s take a look at what meats are ok for kidney disease patients.
Why limit protein for kidney disease?
Healthy kidneys filter out wastes and extra fluid from the blood. Kidney disease damages these filters, causing wastes to build up. Extra protein adds to the waste buildup and overworks the kidneys. That’s why kidney diets often limit protein. But protein is still an important nutrient that your body needs. The goal is to eat the right amount and types of protein when you have kidney issues.
Meat protein and kidney disease
Meat and other animal proteins are high in purines, which break down into uric acid. Having too much uric acid can cause gout and kidney stones in kidney patients. Animal sources also have more phosphate than plant sources. Extra phosphate causes bone and heart problems in renal patients. For these reasons, red meat and other animal proteins may need to be limited in kidney diets.
Meats to choose for kidney health
While some meats are limited on a renal diet, others can still be healthy choices in moderation. Here are some meats that are lower in phosphorus, purines, and sodium that may be better options:
Chicken and turkey
Poultry such as chicken and turkey are lower in purines than red meats. Go for lean, skinless cuts and avoid breaded or fried options. Remove skin and visible fat before cooking. Limit portion sizes to 1-3 ounces per meal.
Fish and seafood
Most fish and seafood are naturally low in phosphorus and saturated fat. Salmon, trout, tuna, cod, and halibut make good protein choices. Limit breaded fish and high-mercury types like swordfish and mackerel. Enjoy up to 4 ounces of fish a day.
Eggs
Eggs are a versatile protein that can be prepared many ways. Egg whites are the lowest in phosphorus. Limit yolks to 2-3 per week if you have kidney disease.
Lean cuts of pork and beef
Small portions of lean beef and pork can fit into a kidney diet. Choose cuts with “round” or “loin” in the name, and trim away excess fat before cooking. Limit to 2-3 ounces only several times per week. Avoid processed meats like sausage and deli slices.
| Meat | Serving Size | Phosphorus | Purines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 3 ounces | Low | Low |
| Salmon | 4 ounces | Moderate | Low |
| Egg whites | 2 eggs | Very low | Low |
| Lean beef | 2-3 ounces | Moderate | High |
| Lean pork | 2-3 ounces | High | High |
Tips for preparing kidney-friendly meat
How you prepare meat can make a difference in its impact on kidney function. Here are some tips:
Use herb seasonings
Avoid adding salt, soy sauce, ketchup, barbecue sauce and other high-sodium seasonings. Opt for fresh or dried herbs and spices instead.
Trim visible fat
Cut away excess fat before cooking to reduce saturated fats.
Choose healthy cooking methods
Try grilling, broiling, baking, or poaching. Avoid frying meats in oil or butter.
Limit processed meats
Deli meats, hot dogs, sausage and bacon are high in sodium. Swap for fresh meats when possible.
Portion control
Stick to suggested serving sizes, about the size of a deck of cards. Spread throughout meals rather than concentrating at one sitting.
Avoid adding salt
Skip the saltshaker when seasoning meats to limit sodium intake.
Plant-based protein choices
For people with severe kidney issues, plant proteins may be an even healthier choice than meat:
– Beans and legumes like kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas
– Tofu and tempeh
– Nuts and nut butters
– Seeds like pumpkin or sunflower
– Whole grains like quinoa, bulgur, amaranth
These options are lower in phosphorus, saturated fat, and purines than animal proteins. Pairing them with meat stretches your protein dollars. Vegetarian chili, rice and beans, or stir-fries with tofu and vegetables make nutritious renal-friendly meals.
Should I avoid high-protein diets?
High-protein diets like paleo, Atkins or keto can worsen kidney disease. They often rely on red meats that are hard on kidneys. High-protein intake also stresses kidneys that are already working overtime. Limit high-protein shakes and supplements too. Check with your dietitian or doctor about your ideal protein intake. Getting some is vital, but too much can do more harm than good.
Conclusion
Eating the right kinds of meat in moderation can still be part of an optimal kidney diet. Focus on lean poultry, fish, eggs and small portions of red meat a few times per week. Skip breaded, fried and high-sodium options. Pair meats with plant proteins and generous produce for balanced nutrition without overstressing your kidneys. Work with your healthcare team to find the protein plan that keeps your kidneys functioning their best.