Why is knowing about phosphorus important for people with CKD?  Problems can occur when blood potassium levels are either too low or too high. Damaged kidneys allow potassium to build up in the blood, causing serious heart problems. Too much phosphorus in the blood pulls calcium from the bones, making the bones weak and likely to break. Too much phosphorus may also make skin itch. This is one of the reasons people say being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease is a lifestyle change.  It’s important to get a handle on a kidney-friendly diet.  Foods such as milk and cheese, dried beans, colas, canned iced teas and lemonade, nuts, and peanut butter are high in phosphorus. A renal dietitian can help people with advanced CKD learn how to limit phosphorus.  Here’s a stunning and impressive recipe you can make for dessert or even breakfast – Cranberry Clafoutis recipe found on the American Kidney Fund website.  Its not only low in phosphorus but low in sodium, potassium and protein.  Plus it’s fun to say…

The following table gives examples of some high-potassium foods and suggestions for low-potassium alternatives for people with advanced CKD.  Hopefully, this can help when creating your own kidney-friendly recipes.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease