Having diabetes plus kidney disease requiring dialysis may seem challenging as you combine the two eating plans. Choosing lower potassium produce, limiting or avoiding processed items that may contain phosphate additives, and focusing on eating enough high-quality protein, in addition to balancing carbs are key to staying healthy. We've put together some suggestions for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, plus tips to help with managing your plan.
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Day 1
Breakfast Recipes
Whether looking for a savory breakfast or easy weeknight dinner, this herb inspired dish is sure to please. Choose a few of your favorite fresh herbs (basil, parsley, chives or whatever combination you crave) to fold into fluffy scrambled eggs and then place the mixture on top of toasted whole grain bread. Pair with ½ cup low potassium fruit like sliced apples, berries or pineapple or sweet and crunchy Ricotta and Blackberry Jam Crostini.
Lunch Recipes
This veggie rich and high protein soup is sure to hit the spot! Add a slice of toasted whole wheat bread to balance out your carbs, or If you want to add a little more bulk to the pot, you can add ½ cup of high fiber uncooked brown or wild rice..Remember to count the soup as part of your fluid intake for the day if limiting fluids. Make a soup and salad combo with Mixed Green and Cranberry Salad, greens topped with red onion, orange slices, cranberries and low-sodium homemade dressing.
Dinner Recipes
Whether you are vegetarian, or just working to include more plant based proteins with a meatless Monday, this General Tso’s Tofu with Broccoli is great way to add flavor to those meat alternatives. Serve with rice for a quick evening meal or portion and pack for a grab and go meal option! Leftover tofu? Try out these Fresh Vegetable Summer Rolls as a side dish or appetizer. Top the meal off with Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Parfait for dessert.
Snack Recipes
Berries are not only low carb, but also low in potassium. Dress up berries with a combination of sugar-free vanilla pudding mixed with whipped topping.
Replace yolks with hummus to add a flavor twist plus 3 grams fiber to each serving of these easy to make deviled eggs.
Day 2
Breakfast Recipes
Sliced multi-grain Italian bread tossed in egg batter and baked to golden perfection. Topped with pure maple syrup, apples and nuts satisfies those comfort food cravings! Although walnuts contain potassium and phosphorus, limiting to 2 tablespoons per portion keeps this meal kidney-friendly. If you need a little savory to balance out that sweet tooth, add a side of Guilt-Free Sausage Patties. Two patties adds 12 grams of high-quality protein.
Lunch Recipes
Beef Wrap Lunch Box includes a high protein beef wrap, almonds and fresh grapes portioned for a lower potassium and phosphorus meal. No other additions are needed for this pack and go lunch.
Dinner Recipes
A twist on a classic, this Budget-Friendly Herb Garlic Meatloaf is sure to please. Serve with this simple lower potassium Mediterranean Zucchini for dinner or use leftovers to make a quick meatloaf sandwich. For dessert, enjoy a serving of warm Berry Crisp with a dollop of whipped topping.
Snack Recipes
Barbecue sauce and smoked paprika add extra flavor to popcorn. Save on sodium and fat when you pop your own kernals stovetop or with an air popper.
Only 2 ingredients--apples and cinnomon--are required to make low potassium Baked Apple Chips. Slow cook at low heat in the oven to create crisp, naturally sweet chips.
Day 3
Breakfast Recipes
Blueberries, banana and vanilla add natural sweetness to Blueberry Almond Pancakes. Almond flour and ground flax seeds are the extra power-boosting ingredients that make these pancakes high in fiber and satisfaction. Although bananas are high in potassium, the servings size in this recipe is only 1/6th of a large banana. For a protein source and added vegetables, add make-ahead Microwave Egg and Veggie Jars.
Lunch Recipes
A light and refreshing dish high in protein and flavor and low in calories and sodium. This zesty shrimp dish can either be enjoyed a la carte or as a great complement to our Chili Lime Corn on the Cob. Corn is a starchy vegetable so it pairs well with this low carb high protein dish.
Dinner Recipes
For taco Tuesday, or any other day these Turkey Tacos are a great way to start the fiesta. Adjust the spice level by adding more or removing the jalapeno from this simple recipe. Fresh Black Bean Salsa makes a great addition to the party!
Snack Recipes
Healthy snacking makes a difference in meeting your nutritional goals. Try this Black Bean Hummus to boost fiber intake while keeping sodium low. Serve it with unsalted pita chips or celery and carrot sticks for even more goodness!
Looking for a decadent low potassium dessert? This grilled angel food cake is smothered with mixed berries "melted" in a foil package heated on the grill. Perfect for a summer dessert, or make it in the oven anytime.
Work with your dietitian to adjust portions and add foods to meet your individual calorie and protein goals.
Some lower-calorie items were doubled in portion to raise cal/pro to meet goals. When indicated double portion, the nutritionals were adjusted (doubled) in the calculations.
This pre-built meal plan has been approved as kidney-friendly by DaVita dietitians who believe a kidney-friendly diet can be both nutritious and flavorful. Enjoy!