Make The Kidney Connection News
October 27, 2010

Nutrition Tips for Kidney Health

Sodium Tips for People with Chronic Kidney Disease

If you or a loved one has chronic kidney disease (CKD), you know the importance of watching your sodium. Eating less sodium helps lower blood pressure and may slow down CKD. It is also important for people with diabetes or high blood pressure to eat less sodium.

Sodium is a part of salt. Sodium is found in many canned, packaged, and "fast" foods. It is also found in many condiments, seasonings, and meats.

How do I lower sodium in my diet?

• Buy fresh foods more often.
• Cook foods from scratch, instead of eating prepared foods, "fast" foods, frozen dinners, and canned foods that are higher in sodium.
• Use spices, herbs, and sodium-free seasonings in place of salt. Check with your healthcare provider about using salt substitutes.
• Rinse canned vegetables, beans, meats, and fish with water to remove extra sodium.

To view other helpful tips about sodium for people with CKD, click here.

Plan your Kidney Health Screening This Fall

NKDEP partner, the American Kidney Fund's MIKE® Program, offers free kidney health screenings, nutrition and fitness presentations and follow-up services (including medical referrals and public education materials). These services are provided at a variety of venues, including faith organizations, family reunions, expositions and festivals, dialysis centers, community centers, colleges, and corporate offices.

The MIKE® Program regularly offers screenings in Atlanta, Chicago and Washington, D.C., but also can accommodate organizations nationwide. Click here to learn about other MIKE® screenings happening in your community!