Starting your dialysis journey can feel incredibly overwhelming. Not only is it an intensely draining and time consuming process, but it can also feel like the list of restricted foods is never ending.
After a long day hooked up to machines, all you want to do is head home and binge out on your favorite snacks. But chocolate, crisps and sweets are a no-go for those with CKD.
Don’t despair, all hope is not lost! There are some delicious and nutritious snacks that you can have while on dialysis. These treats are sure to perk you up and what’s more, they’re quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for tired dialysis patients!
1. Frozen Grapes
Starting our list off strong, we have a snack that’s as delightful to eat as it is beneficial for your health: Frozen Grapes. Now you may be wondering, ‘why grapes?’, and more specifically ‘why frozen grapes?’.
Well, let’s delve into it.
The magic of grapes lies in their nutritional profile which is particularly suited to the dietary needs of someone on dialysis. Grapes are naturally low in sodium and potassium, two minerals that damaged kidneys will struggle to filter.
Too much sodium and potassium in the bloodstream can lead to a whole host of issues such as high blood pressure, fluid build up and cardiovascular problems. So it’s best to avoid snacking on treats that contain high levels of either.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Grapes are bursting with antioxidants, including vitamin C and flavonoids, which are essential for fighting off oxidative stress — a common antagonist in kidney disease scenarios. Among these antioxidants, resveratrol deserves a special shout-out. Found in the skin of grapes, resveratrol has been linked to improved heart health. On top of this, studies have shown that resveratrol could offer protective benefits against kidney disease progression.
Now, let’s talk about the twist of freezing them. When grapes are frozen, they taste sweeter! This natural sweetness means you can curb your sugar cravings, while remaining loyal to your dialysis diet. A win-win!
2. Roasted Cauliflower
Cauliflower stands out in the kidney-friendly snack lineup for several reasons. Firstly, it’s remarkably low in potassium, which dialysis patients need to watch closely as high potassium levels can affect heart rhythm, and cause cardiovascular issues. People with CKD often find they have elevated levels of potassium in their bloodstream due to their kidneys’ impaired filtering function. So low-potassium foods are a cornerstone of the dialysis diet!
But its benefits don’t stop there. Cauliflower is bursting with nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
It’s also rich in fiber which is important for maintaining digestive health. Studies have highlighted the benefits of fiber in the diets of those with chronic kidney disease, noting its role in improving gut health and reducing inflammation.
As if that wasn’t enough, cauliflower is also a good source of indole-3-carbinol, which is another compound known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Who knew munching on some cauliflower could be so soothing for the body!
But why roasted? Roasting cauliflower not only enhances flavor but also improves its texture, offering a satisfying crunch that many crave in a snack. Plus, cooking methods like roasting can actually enhance the bioavailability of certain nutrients in vegetables, which enhances their antioxidant profiles!
So next time you’re craving some crisps, roast up some cauliflower with your favorite spices for a nutritious alternative.
3. Carrot and Celery Sticks with Hummus
Both carrots and celery are known for their low potassium content, making them ideal for a dialysis-friendly diet. But the benefits don’t stop there. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a nutrient that the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for immune function, which is incredibly important for those already battling health issues. Many studies have highlighted the importance of beta-carotene as an antioxidant, showing its potential to combat oxidative stress, which is a major concern for those with kidney disease.
Celery, on the other hand, brings its own set of advantages. It’s not only refreshing and hydrating, but also contains compounds like apigenin, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. For individuals on dialysis, managing inflammation is crucial, making celery a smart choice for snacking.
Pairing these vegetables with hummus balances the snack out by introducing a protein component. Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health, but a lot of it is removed during the dialysis process. This means it’s crucially important for dialysis patients to boost their protein intake to keep their bodies healthy!
Hummus is a great source of plant-based protein, and has been shown to have numerous health benefits. Chickpeas, the main ingredient, are low in potassium and phosphorus compared to other legumes, fitting nicely into a kidney-friendly diet
On top of this, hummus contributes fiber and healthy fats, rounding out this snack’s profile as not just kidney-friendly but holistically nutritious!
2. Greek Yoghurt and Berries
Greek yoghurt stands out in the dairy aisle for its higher protein content compared to regular yoghurt, making it an excellent choice for dialysis patients who need to stock up!
Protein, as we’ve discussed, is vital for dialysis patients, aiding in muscle maintenance and overall well-being. But the choice of Greek yoghurt goes beyond just protein; it’s also about its lower potassium and phosphorus levels relative to other dairy products. This makes it a safer choice for those managing their kidney health.
But the protein in Greek yoghurt is not just any protein; it’s complete, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids that your body needs, but can’t produce on its own.
Berries, including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, bring their own set of benefits to this snack. Not only do they add natural sweetness, without the need for added sugars, but they’re also loaded with antioxidants.
Antioxidants play a vital role in fighting inflammation and protecting cells from damage, which is essential for individuals undergoing dialysis.
Each of these berries offer a wide variety of antioxidants such as vitamin C and manganese, along with fiber and heaps of phytonutrients. These compounds are crucial for fighting oxidative stress, which can exacerbate kidney issues if not kept in check.
Combining Greek yoghurt with berries not only makes for a tasty treat but also a smart one!
1. Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers
It’s no secret that people with kidney issues need to watch their phosphorus levels. An overload of phosphorus in the bloodstream is called hyperphosphatemia and it can cause a whole host of health issues ranging from bone disorders to cardiovascular problems. So opting for a low-phosphorus fish such as tuna is a safe way to get your protein fix!
Tuna offers the essential amino acids needed for maintaining muscle mass without the added burden of excessive phosphorus or potassium. Protein’s role in the dialysis patient’s diet cannot be overstated, as it aids in repairing tissues and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Tuna also offers a wealth of omega-3 fatty acids, known for their heart-health benefits. According to the American Heart Association, omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in reducing the risk of arrhythmias and decreasing triglyceride levels. There is a significant link between heart health and kidney health so this is an important consideration for dialysis patients.
Bell peppers, the colorful vessels for the tuna salad, bring more than just visual appeal to the table. They’re packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants that play a significant role in combating oxidative stress.
Vitamin C is especially important for dialysis patients, as it supports immune function and collagen synthesis, aiding in wound healing and vascular health. Many studies have shown the importance of vitamin C in the diets of those with chronic kidney disease, underscoring its role in combating inflammation.
Creating a tuna salad stuffed bell pepper is as simple as it is nutritious. Mix together low-sodium canned tuna, a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist, and your choice of herbs for flavor. Scoop this mixture into halved bell peppers for a snack that’s both delicious and healthy.
So there you have it, five dialysis-friendly snacks. Whether you pop them in a lunchbox to munch on throughout the day, or quickly throw them together after a long day at the treatment center, each of these options offers a wide range of health benefits, while satisfying your cravings.
