When you’re living with IgA nephropathy (IgAN)—also known as Berger’s disease—food choices play an important role in protecting your kidneys. IgAN is an autoimmune condition where antibodies damage the kidneys’ tiny blood vessels that filter waste. Over time, this can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or even kidney failure.

There’s no single “IgAN diet,” but eating low-sodium, whole foods and focusing on nutrients that reduce inflammation may help slow progression and support overall health. Here’s what experts recommend, and how to build meals that nourish your body and your kidneys.*

1. Foods High in Antioxidants

Antioxidants protect your body from oxidative stress, which can trigger inflammation and worsen kidney damage. Research shows that antioxidants may slow CKD progression and lower the risk of kidney failure.

Antioxidant-rich choices include:

• Apples, blueberries, and strawberries
• Bell peppers, broccoli, and kale
• Walnuts, pecans, and oats

Try starting your morning with oatmeal topped with berries and a few unsalted walnuts for a nutrient-dense, kidney-friendly breakfast.

2. Lean Animal Proteins

Protein is essential, but too much can strain the kidneys. Choosing lean cuts helps limit saturated fat and phosphorus, both of which can stress damaged kidneys.

Lean protein options include:

• Skinless chicken or turkey
• Lean ground beef (90–93%)
• Pork loin or tenderloin
• White fish such as cod or seabass

Keep portion sizes moderate (about the size of your palm), and balance your plate with vegetables or grains.

3. Plant-Based Proteins

Plant-based proteins are easier on the kidneys because your body absorbs less phosphorus from plants than from animal foods. They also provide fiber and antioxidants that help fight inflammation.

Plant-based options include:

• Beans, lentils, peas, and chickpeas
• Soy foods such as tofu, tempeh, and edamame
• Nuts and seeds (chia, hemp, flax)
• Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, barley, and oats

Following a low-protein or plant-forward diet may help delay kidney failure in people with IgAN—just be sure to work with your doctor or dietitian to customize it to your needs.

4. Fruits and Vegetables Low in Potassium

When your kidneys aren’t working well, potassium can build up in your blood and affect your heart and muscles. Many people with IgAN benefit from choosing lower-potassium fruits and vegetables.

Kidney-friendly produce includes:

• Berries, apples, peaches, pears, and grapes
• Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, radish, and asparagus
• Peas, green beans, and bell peppers
• Carrots, celery, cucumber, eggplant, onion, and white mushrooms

Try mixing roasted broccoli, peppers, and onions for a colorful, low-potassium side dish.

5. Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and support heart and kidney health. They may also help slow the progression of IgAN and improve kidney function.

Great sources of omega-3s include:

• Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, herring, or mackerel
• Nuts and seeds such as walnuts, chia, and flaxseed
• Plant oils like canola, soybean, or flaxseed oil

Swap fried foods for baked or grilled salmon with steamed vegetables for a dinner that supports both heart and kidney health.

Learn more in our nutrition for CKD webinar with renal dietitian Lauren Levy 

Foods to Limit or Avoid

Certain foods can worsen kidney strain and increase blood pressure or cholesterol. You may need to limit:

• Sodium: Processed foods, canned soups, salty snacks, sauces, and cured meats
• Phosphorus: Red meats, processed cheeses, flavored drinks, and packaged deli meats
• Potassium: Bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, spinach, and avocados
• Saturated and trans fats: Fried foods, butter, margarine, processed baked goods, and coconut or palm oils

Because every patient’s bloodwork and kidney function are different, always ask your care team which foods and minerals you personally need to limit.

Should You Avoid Gluten? 

Some research suggests that gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, may act as an immune trigger in certain people with IgAN. A higher number of people with IgAN also have celiac disease, but evidence is still limited on whether a gluten-free diet slows kidney damage.

If you suspect gluten sensitivity or have celiac disease, talk with your doctor before changing your diet. They can help determine if a gluten-free plan is right for you.

Meal Ideas for IgAN

Here are a few kidney-friendly ideas to help you get started:

Breakfast

• Oatmeal with blueberries and walnuts
• Egg-white omelet with bell peppers and onions
• Tofu veggie scramble with whole-grain toast

Lunch

• Grilled chicken berry salad with low-sodium vinaigrette
• Tuna salad made with Greek yogurt, lemon, and herbs
• Vegetable lentil soup with low-sodium broth

Dinner

• Baked salmon with broccoli
• Tofu and vegetable stir-fry with low-sodium soy sauce
• Grain bowl with barley, roasted peppers, and onions

Next Steps

Because nutrition needs change based on your kidney function, bloodwork, and stage of disease, it’s important to:

• Work with your nephrologist or dietitian to customize your plan.
• Focus on balance: combine antioxidant-rich produce, healthy fats, and lean or plant-based proteins.
• Stay informed: as research evolves, new dietary recommendations for IgAN may emerge.

*Health (October 5, 2025) “5 Foods To Eat if You Have IgA Nephropathy (IgAN)”. health.com

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