Though we often use salt and sodium interchangeably, salt is actually a compound called sodium chloride. While sodium is necessary for bodily functions, excessive intake can be detrimental, especially for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). As CKD progresses, the kidneys become less efficient at removing excess sodium and fluid, leading to complications such as elevated blood pressure and further kidney damage. Knowing how to manage sodium intake by limiting certain foods is essential for supporting kidney and overall health.

The Consequences of Excessive Sodium Intake

Excessive sodium consumption poses several risks for individuals with CKD. Sodium retention can result in:

• Swelling of legs, ankles, feet, and hands
• Difficulty breathing
• Strain on the heart due to fluid accumulation in the lungs

People undergoing dialysis may experience cramping and blood pressure fluctuations. By reducing salty food intake, you can better regulate your fluid intake and mitigate these risks.

Identifying High-Sodium Foods

Sodium can be sneaky. It’s no surprise that it’s abundant in such common culprits as:

• Flavored salts, dry soup mixes, and bouillon cubes
• Snack and party foods like potato chips, cheese doodles, and pretzels
• Sauces and gravies
• Cured meats and other foods like olives and pickles
• Canned soups, meat, fish, and other pre-cooked foods
• Frozen, fast food, and convenience store foods

It may be surprising, however, to learn that high amounts of sodium are also present in such food items as dairy products like buttermilk, cheese, and cheese spreads, as well as naturally occurring in such vegetables as:

• Celery
• Beets
• Spinach
• Artichokes
• Carrots
• Broccoli

Vegetables such as those listed above do have beneficial nutrients, however, and can often be eaten in carefully controlled amounts.

Crafting a Low-Sodium Eating Plan

Collaborating with a renal dietitian is vital for CKD patients to develop a personalized low-sodium eating plan. By working closely with a healthcare professional, you can tailor your diet to meet your specific needs and ensure adequate nutrition. 

Since lower-sodium foods can also be higher in potassium and/or phosphorus, which can also be dangerous to people with CKD, it’s important to work with someone knowledgeable to optimize food combinations for your safety and preferences, and minimize risks.

Prioritizing a low-sodium diet supports your overall well-being and enhances your quality of life.

*DaVita Kidney Care. (n.d.). High-Sodium Foods to Limit When You Have Kidney Disease. https://www.davita.com/diet-nutrition/articles/basics/high-sodium-foods-to-limit-when-you-have-kidney-disease 

Responsum Health closely vets all sources to ensure that we always provide you with high-quality, reliable information. We do not, however, endorse or recommend any specific providers, treatments, or products, and the use of a given source does not imply an endorsement of any provider, treatment, medication, or procedure discussed within