As a kidney health dietitian at Balboa Nephrology, I spend a lot of time educating on the ideal plate built around how much protein to consume to protect kidneys from further damage. When not functioning properly, waste from protein digestion can build up in the blood causing an array of symptoms and extra wear and tear on the kidneys.

Read on for tips on making satisfying kidney-friendly meals.

1. Half plate veggies – Begin with nature’s colorful bounty to provide your body with healing nutrients and insoluble fiber. Fiber is essential for disease prevention and helps us to feel full. Get creative with your veggie intake. Salads are perfect, but how about a sautéed medley or a seasonal soup in addition? Pair those sides with a serving of cut carrots and cucumbers with hummus dip to start! It’s hard to overdo it, trust me. Well prepared veggies are a low calorie, nutrient-rich powerhouse, so load up on them in different ways.
2. Quarter plate protein – The more ways you enjoy number 1, the easier this small portion becomes. Choose high quality, lean protein choices. Here are some ideas: a small piece of seafood or chicken (half the size of your palm) or a portion of beans, lentils or tofu. Better yet, a stew made with both chicken and beans. Remember, plant proteins are kinder to your kidneys so try to minimize the amount of animal protein consumed, using it more to provide flavor rather than being central to the dish.
3. Quarter plate carbs – Once again, the more ways you enjoy number 1, the easier this small portion becomes! Whether you’re managing diabetes or are trying to prevent it, it’s crucial to control the amount of carbs eaten at a given time. Also, choose wisely. Carbs are found in so many foods apart from what typically comes to mind – bread, rice, potatoes and sweets. Select those that have more nutritional value. If going for grains, aim for whole grains such as whole wheat bread, brown rice or corn tortillas. Try to think outside the box and include other healthy carbs such as fruit, yogurt or how about both for a small sweet treat?
4. Sprinkle on the healthy fats – Good fats are needed by the body for optimal functioning and they also help us feel satiated. Opt for olive, avocado or grapeseed oil for cooking and dressings. Try adding some unsalted nuts and seeds for crunch and flavor on top of the numerous health benefits they provide. Some favorites are walnuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds and hemp seeds, but the more variety the better! Sprinkle some on your soup, salad, stir fry or rice pilaf to round out your kidney-friendly meal 😊
5. Hydrate – Water is the ideal beverage to wash your food down as it’s needed by the body for all organs, especially the kidneys, to function properly. Jazz it up with a splash of cranberry juice or try unsweetened sparkling, flavored water. Minimize your intake of sugar-filled drinks and be sure to steer clear of dark sodas (regular or Diet) to avoid added phosphates, which put an extra burden on the kidneys.

Following plate planning guidelines and prioritizing kidney-friendly foods, may help improve your overall health and well-being. Remember to consult with a registered dietitian or a kidney specialist for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs. With consistent effort and the right dietary approach, you can effectively manage your kidney health and enjoy a fulfilling life.

Min Krishnamurthy, MS, RD is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) who joined Balboa Nephrology in 2023.  She sees patients in Chula Vista and National City and is passionate about empowering individuals through personalized nutrition counseling.