6 Foods to Help You Manage Renal Disease

When you're living with renal disease, one of your top priorities should be protecting the remaining kidney function you have left. In most cases, you'll need to take medication. And your doctor will recommend specific diet and lifestyle habits to help you.

Kidney function is critical to help remove waste and excess fluid. Your kidneys also help regulate blood pressure, and perform other tasks to keep you healthy.

Take a closer look at your diet, and it's important to limit sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and protein when you have renal disease.

That's not always easy to do when you have renal disease. Fortunately, some specific foods can help you.

1. Cauliflower

It's high in vitamins C, K, and B, and a good source of fiber. Try: Meatballs with Rice & Gravy, Peas & Carrots & Cauliflower

2. Egg Whites

If you're going to eat eggs, skip the yolks. They're high in phosphorus. Go with egg whites instead. Try: Breakfast Scramble with Asparagus & Hash Browns

3. Garlic

You'll have to step away from the salt shaker and high-sodium foods when you have renal disease. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy foods rich in flavor. Add garlic and enjoy. Try: Cheese Ravioli with Marinara Sauce, Lentils with Onion & Garlic, Vegetable Blend

4. Chicken

When you have renal disease, doctors recommend consuming less than 25 grams of protein per day. You still need protein, and chicken is a good option. Try: Breaded Chicken Patty, Spring Vegetables & Corn.

5. Bell Peppers

Did you know bell peppers are low in potassium? That makes them a good vegetable for a Renal-friendly diet. It also contains high levels of vitamin C. In fact, it contains 158 percent of the recommended intake. Try: Lasagna with Meat Sauce with Mixed Greens, Corn & Peppers

6. Mushrooms

Here's a great way to limit protein when you have renal disease. Use mushrooms as a meat substitute. Try: Spinach Mushroom Lasagna with Garlic Green Beans

Looking for more Renal-Friendly meals? Check out the complete menu here.