Foods to Avoid With Polycystic Kidney Disease

Since there was no cure for this disease, the doctor advised me to change my lifestyle, especially to pay attention to my diet. By adopting healthy eating habits, I could reduce the burden on my kidneys.

In the beginning these changes were very difficult for me. I have always been fond of tasty and spicy food. But for the health of my kidneys, I had to put my preferences on hold.

Today I want to share with you the foods I removed from my diet and which I included. Hopefully my experience will prove helpful to you

• Low Sodium Diet

The first and most important change was to reduce salt intake. Packaged foods, canned soups, restaurant meals, and processed meats (cold cuts, hotdogs, etc.) typically contain high amounts of sodium. I completely excluded these things from my diet.

While cooking at home, I also reduced the use of salt considerably. I now use spices, lemon juice and herbs to flavor my food.

• Control on Protein

Meat, fish, eggs and dairy products are high in protein, but they also contain phosphorus. Excess phosphorus can put a burden on the kidneys.

I have almost stopped consuming red meat and eat chicken or fish only once or twice a week. To compensate for the protein deficiency, I have increased my intake of pulses and beans.

• Choosing Fruits

Fruits are beneficial for health, but some fruits contain high amount of potassium, which can be harmful for kidney patients. I have reduced the intake of fruits like banana, orange, kiwi and dates.

Instead, include low potassium fruits like apple, pear, strawberry and watermelon in your diet.

• Focus on Vegetables

Vegetables are a good source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. I have included things like green vegetables, carrots, capsicum and tomatoes in my diet.

However, some vegetables like spinach, beetroot and potato also have high potassium content, hence I consume them only in limited quantities.

• Importance of Drinking Water

Drinking adequate amount of water is very important for the kidneys. It helps in removing toxins from the body. I now drink water at regular intervals throughout the day.

Other Precautions

I have also reduced some other food items from my diet, such as:

• Alcohol: Alcohol damages the kidneys, so I have almost completely stopped consuming it.
• Caffeine: Drinking excessive amounts of tea and coffee can also affect the kidneys. I have limited my intake of these.
• Sugary beverages: Cold drinks and fruit juices contain high amounts of sugar. Instead of drinking these, I drink water or homemade lemon water.
• Cooked food: I eat freshly cooked food as much as possible. Cooked or packaged food often contains excess salt and unhealthy fats.

Delicious and Healthy Food

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you have to stop eating delicious food. With a little hard work you can prepare delicious and healthy food of your choice.

I have learned many new recipes, which use less salt and less phosphorus. Proper use of spices helps in enhancing the taste.

Maintaining morale (Staying Positive)

It is not easy to bring changes in eating habits, but gradually it becomes a habit. Within a few days I started feeling the difference. My body became lighter and more energetic than before.

It is very important to remain positive in this journey. Consult your doctor regularly and follow the diet suggested by him. For more information, you can also contact the organizations related to kidney disease.

I hope that my experience will inspire you and you too will adopt a healthy diet to take care of your kidney health.

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